Calculated based on number of publications stored in Pure and citations from Scopus
19992024

Research activity per year

Personal profile

Research Interests

The main focus of my research is currently in software testing, especially the areas of metamorphic testing and adaptive random testing. I am currently particularly interested in testing so-called untestable systems (especially in areas of Big Data and Machine Learning). I have also always been interested in ways to enhance both my teaching and my own learning, and hence also conduct research into technology-enhancement of teaching and learning. In summary, my main research interests are:

  • Metamorphic Testing
  • Adaptive Random Testing
  • Technology-enhanced Teaching & Learning
  • Fault Localization
  • Computer Security

Personal profile

Dave Towey received his BA and MA degrees from The University of Dublin, Trinity College; PgCHE from University of Nottingham; PgCertTESOL from The Open University of Hong Kong; MEd from The University of Bristol; and PhD from The University of Hong Kong. He was the first foreign academic recipient of the Zhuhai municipal outstanding teacher award, in 2007, and he received the Lord Dearing award in 2017 for his outstanding contribution to the development of teaching and student learning. He is a full professor, and the associate dean for education and student experience for the Faculty of Science and Engineering. He is the deputy head of the School of Computer Science, which he joined in September 2013. He also serves as deputy director of the International Doctoral Innovation Centre (IDIC).

After graduating from The University of Dublin, Trinity College, Dave worked in Japan in the late 1990s, helping develop a breast cancer screening tool using ultrasound imaging technology and fuzzy reasoning.

After this, he lived in Hong Kong from 2000 to 2005/2006, where, as well as completing his PhD, he worked at The University of Hong Kong, and as a teacher and teacher trainer in the local school system.

In 2005, he became involved in a newly created liberal arts college in Zhuhai, Mainland China, the Beijing Normal University – Hong Kong Baptist University United International College (UIC), where he remained until 2013. While at UIC, he taught modules related to computer science, linguistics, and education. He also held several roles, including deputy director of the English Language Centre, and coordinator (director) of the Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) degree programme. In these roles, he oversaw delivery of a large number of pre-service and in-service training courses and workshops.

Dave's research interests span a number of areas, including technology-enhanced teaching and learning, and software testing, especially metamorphic testing and adaptive random testing.

If you are interested in working with Dave on projects related to his research interests (especially for Big Data, Machine Learning, and other “untestable systems”), please contact him by email (Dave.Towey@nottingham.edu.cn). If you are a potential PhD student, please include details of when you may become available.

Teaching

I have always found teaching to be one of the most enjoyable aspects of being in a university position. Before coming to UNNC, I was privileged to be able to teach many different subjects, at many different levels – ranging from kindergarten to post-graduate. My research interests also include areas which I find directly impact on my teaching.

At UNNC I have taught the following modules:

  • AE1REQ: Introduction to Requirements Engineering
  • AE1FSE: Introduction to Software Engineering
  • AE1ISO: Introduction to Software Engineering and Object-Oriented Programming
  • AE2SEM: Software Engineering Methodologies
  • AE2GRP: Software Engineering Group Project
  • AE3SQM: Software Quality Metrics /Management
  • AE3SQA: Software Quality Assurance
  • AE3SEC: Computer Security
  • AE3IDJ: Individual Dissertation Joint Honours
  • AE3IDS: Individual Dissertation Single Honours

Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

  • SDG 4 - Quality Education
  • SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
  • SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities

Education/Academic qualification

PhD, The University of Hong Kong

Master, Trinity College Dublin

Bachelor, Trinity College Dublin

Master, University of Bristol

External positions

Associate Professor, United International College (UIC)

20052013

Demonstrator, The University of Hong Kong

20002005

Systems Engineer & Researcher, Mitani Sangyo K.K.

19972000

Disciplines

  • Software Engineering
  • Cyberspace Security
  • Pedagogy
  • Computer Science and Engineering

Person Types

  • Staff

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