Dr. Robert Polding named Assistant Vice Dean

Dr. Robert Polding has been appointed the new Assistant Vice Dean at IE School of Science  and Technology (Sci – Tech) and will lead the Computer Science and Data Programs.  

Dr. Polding, an integral part of IE’s academic team, holds a Ph.D. and MSc in Information Systems and has had an impressive career that spans academia, research, and industry. In his new role he will focus on the redesign of the Computer Science and Data Programs, strengthening the link between academia and industry, and promoting joint research through Impact Xcelerator. 

"The landscape of data science and computer science is evolving so rapidly," Dr. Polding explains. "Since we last designed our Bachelor of Data and Business Analytics program in 2018, there have been significant changes in the industry. We are committed to bringing all the subjects up to date, incorporating the latest trends, tools, and technologies. This will ensure that our students are well-equipped to enter the workforce and make an impact from day one."

Dr. Polding has been a distinguished professor at IE University for many years and has a strong academic focus on user experience design, development methodologies, and marketing strategies for online applications. His research interests include big data, natural language processing (NLP), and quantitative modeling. Over the years, his work has spanned various domains, such as e-commerce, mobile applications, RFID technology, and database systems.

Beyond academia, Dr. Polding has extensive industry experience, having worked in a variety of roles across several leading organizations. He is the founder and former CTO of Linotek, a company that developed location-aware digital tour guides for museums. He has also worked with global companies like British Telecom, Indra, and Greenpeace, and has held senior technical roles such as project manager, senior developer, and network design manager. Additionally, Dr. Polding's work has taken him into the public sector, including his time as a contractor for the Spanish Army and a deputy head teacher in Madrid. Dr. Polding's diverse career has equipped him with a unique perspective on both the practical and theoretical aspects of computer science and data science.

"Having been “on the floor" working as a senior developer and project manager for over a decade, I understand the job markets both computer and data science students face," said Dr. Polding "Through applied research, I have built a network of both professional and academic colleagues whom I’ve worked over the years through the IE School of Sci-Tech Impact Xcelerator, and whom I´m looking forward to bringing to the table for our programs."

Dr. Polding’s new programs will be tailored to create forward-thinking leaders ready to work in the complex, dynamic environments of the future and solidify IE’s position as a leader in impactful, industry-connected education.