Security | Technology | Pastoral Care
Dr. Kenneth Wilkinson-Roberts (They/He)
Hi! I'm Ken, a queer, disabled, interdisciplinary scholar. I research the intersection of Practical Theology, Security Studies and technology, to understand how these elements influence each other. For the last few years I have been doing this by studying the life and work of British Military Chaplains and Military Personnel as they interact with and imagine advanced military technologies.
I recently achieved a PhD in International Relations, and now work as an Independent Scholar publishing this research and exploring related ideas.
The Backstory
Hailing from the marshes of the Fens, I am a queer and chaotic interdisciplinary thinker. In 2015 I headed north to university in Lancaster to explore the worlds of Religious Studies and International Relations. I was inspired by scholarship concerning how religion can be a useful factor for understanding conflict. After a few years focusing on conflict transformation in the CofE, I became interested in digital technology and its relationship to care and conflict, so I began researching digital pastoral care.
This research drew me into the world of Military Chaplaincy, where religion and conflict overlap around a distinct ministry. At this point, my newly recruited research assistant (Mymble the Cat) and I embarked on a new journey; understanding the future of war!
Professional Milestones
ESRC Funding
1+3 Studentship in International Relations, 2019.
Awarded in 2019 for an MRes and PhD into Military Chaplaincy in the Future Operational Environment
PhD Awarded
PhD International Relations, 2026
I successfully defended my PhD thesis, to examiners Caron Gentry and Peter Lee. Work from this PhD is going to be published over the next few years, so keep an eye on the News section for updates.
Independant Scholarship
Postdoctoral Research, 2026
Time to embark on the joys of independent scholarship. See the blog, publications and my socials for my most recent work and events!