Dr Thomas A Wright

School of Information, Journalism and Communication

Postdoctoral Research Associate

A photo of Tom Wright
Profile picture of A photo of Tom Wright
t.a.wright@sheffield.ac.uk
The Wave

Full contact details

Dr Thomas A Wright
School of Information, Journalism and Communication
The Wave
2 Whitham Road
Sheffield
S10 2AH
Profile
My research makes theoretical contributions to urgent concerns surrounding the role and impact of nascent digital sociotechnical systems and infrastructures in society. In my current post, I am working with Dr Niall Docherty on his AHRC-funded project - Control Shift Escape - to examine the core concepts that undergird contemporary articulations of digital well-being and imagine new ways of living a good life that exist beyond the confines of neoliberal responsibilisation and self control. 
 
Prior to this, I completed a PhD in the School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations in March, 2026. I was supervised by Dr Eva Haifa Giraud and Dr Harrison Smith, and funded by the AHRC via the White Rose College of Arts and Humanities (WRoCAH).
Research interests

My research spans multiple fields, such as:

  • Critical Data Studies 
  • Science and Technology Studies 
  • Critical and Cultural Studies 
  • Media and Communication 
  • Digital Methods 

I possess specific expertise in: 

  • AI and algorithmic governmentality 
  • Theories of power, resistance and control 
  • Alternative digital media cultures 
  • The politics of social media 
  • Sustainable digital futures 
  • Qualitative and digital research methods 

I am interested in collaborating with colleagues across any combination of these interests.

Research group

I am member of research and reading groups including Social Theory Reading Group (STRG) and Science, Technology and Medicine in Society (STeMIS). 

Grants
  • AHRC open competition doctoral scholarship – October 2022
  • WRoCAH large award – DMCCS Summer School 2023 – June 2023
  • WRoCAH large award – AoIR Annual Conference 2023 – October 2023
Teaching activities

MA Digital Media and Society, module SCS6089 The Digital Self.

Professional activities and memberships
  • Member of the Association of Internet Researchers (2022 -)
  • Member of Media, Communication, and Cultural Studies Association (2022 - )