About the Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour
Putting people at the heart of digital security
The Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour at the University of Bath launched in 2024 under the leadership of co-directors Professor Laura Smith and Professor Adam Joinson.
The Institute brings together expertise from across disciplines to address global security challenges through world-leading, socio-technical research. By adopting a "whole of society" approach, we work with partners across academia, industry, government and civil society to co-create inclusive solutions to digital security challenges.
Our mission is to produce interdisciplinary research that puts people at the heart of digital security.
Through our research, partnerships and engagement activities, we aim to help make the UK a more innovative, secure and resilient digital society, develop the next generation of experts in digital security and behaviour, and strengthen the UK's position as a global leader in this field.
Explore our research themes, people, and latest news to learn more about our work and impact.
Leadership and Independent Advisory Board
IDSB is led by Directors Professors Laura Smith and Adam Joinson, supported by Deputy Directors Dr Olivia Brown, Dr Julian Padget and Dr Andre Barrinha. We also benefit from the invaluable contribution of our Independent Advisory Board, which plays a key role in guiding the Institute's strategic direction and supporting its long-term ambitions.
Learn more about our Leadership Team and Independent Advisory Board.
Our partners
Collaboration is central to the Institute for Digital Security and Behaviour's mission. We work closely with colleagues across the University of Bath, including academic departments, research institutes, doctoral researchers and University leadership, to deliver interdisciplinary research and innovation.
Beyond the University, we partner with government departments, policymakers, regulators, law enforcement agencies, industry leaders, professional bodies, think tanks and international organisations to address some of the most pressing digital security and behavioural challenges facing society today. Our network includes research funders, regional innovation partners, universities across the UK and beyond, and organisations operating at the intersection of technology, policy and security.
These partnerships enable us to translate world-leading research into real-world impact, informing policy, supporting innovation, developing future talent and helping to create a safer, more secure and resilient digital society. Find out more about our collaborative projects and policy engagement activities.