About
Stuart's research interests lie in criminal law and counterterrorism, particularly cyberterrorism and terrorists’ use of the internet. He is Director of the University’s Cyber Threats Research Centre (CYTREC), lead organiser of the biennial #TASMConf (Terrorism and Social Media Conference) and Coordinator of the VOX-Pol Network. His underpinning research ethos is collaborative, emphasising the importance of interdisciplinary, impactful work, as well as nurturing younger researchers.
His most recent work on terrorists’ use of the internet has examined violent jihadist narratives, their dissemination via social media, and legal and policy responses. Prior to this, his work focused on cyberterrorism, examining definitional issues, threat assessment and questions of response. As well as hosting numerous events on these topics, including a NATO Advanced Research Workshop, Stuart has published a variety of edited collections, journal articles, book chapters, research reports and conference papers. In 2016/17 he was also the holder of a Fulbright Cyber Security Award.
Earlier work includes projects on the construction and application of principles in counterterrorism policy, the notion that counterterrorism policy must balance security and liberty (funded by the British Academy) and Swansea’s approach to youth anti-social behaviour (funded by the Welsh Government). He has also written a number of other articles on the regulation of anti-social behaviour, considering such issues as the use of ASBOs against young people, the definition of anti-social behaviour and the classification of the ASBO as a civil remedy.