Our people

The Institute for Safe Autonomy brings together expertise from across the University of York to capitalise on our exceptional research strengths.

Contact us

isa@york.ac.uk

Co-Directors Ana MacIntosh and John McDermid

Dr Ana MacIntosh
Dr MacIntosh has held leadership positions in robotics, autonomy and AI for 10
years, including managing the development of strategic partnerships with
major organisations across both the private and public sector. She was pivotal in
securing investment for York’s flagship Institute for Safe Autonomy, also acting
as the university's lead client for the design and build of this bespoke living lab,
developing a case for investment and ensuring the laboratory facilities were fit
for purpose.

Professor John McDermid OBE FREng
Professor McDermid has worked on safety of complex, computer and software-
controlled systems for almost forty years, leading major research initiatives and
acting as advisor to industry and government on several continents. He has led
and played crucial roles in major initiatives supported by the Lloyd’s Register
Foundation, including the development of ISA.

Academic leadership

Director of Research at the York Centre for Quantum Technologies

Professor of Quantum Information Technologies

Research Fellows

Pragna Das

Professional Support

Head of Faculty Operations

Senior Technical Team Manager

Simone Quinn

Admin Manager

Polly Buxton

Admin Coordinator

Admin Coordinator

Robotics and UAS Technician

Departmental Computing Officer (DCO)

Contact us

isa@york.ac.uk