Dr Harry T Dyer is a digital sociologist and lecturer at UEA. Harry joined UEA as a lecturer after successfully completing his PhD at UEA in the Department of Education and Lifelong Learning. He has a broad academic background, with degrees in linguistics and social science research methods, as well as his ongoing research in online identity presentation.

Harry’s current research is in the emerging field of Digital Sociology, in which he looks at how social media platform design affects identity presentation and social interaction. His research proposes a new theoretical framework through which to consider the relationship between platform design and user that results in unique but bound identity performances. His is currently building a research project to look at LGBTQ experiences on social media, examining and unpacking the complex blend of platform design and socio-cultural resources that combine to create online social experiences. He is keen to unpack what compromises and negotiations are made between the user and platform, and what can be done to create a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ users.

Harry has taught on a range of courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level, including courses on research methodology, social theory, media and education, and research ethics. Given his broad academic background, Harry’s research and teaching interests are equally expansive, and include digital sociology, identity theory, social theory, science and technology studies, research methodology, ethics, sociolinguistics, posthumanism, poststructuralism, and media and education.