Research group

DIGITAL RESEARCH AND COMMUNICATION TRANSFORMATION GROUP

The Research Group on Innovation and Digital Transformation in Communication (GITDCom) is dedicated to exploring and redefining the landscape of communication in the digital age, integrating multiple disciplines and approaching communication from a holistic perspective.

Our value proposition

At GITDCom, we research communication from an integrative perspective that brings together technology, organisations and people. Our scientific model is based on three principles:

  • Scientific excellence, through high-quality research and high-impact publications.
  • Interdisciplinarity, integrating communication, artificial intelligence, social sciences, health, education and technology.
  • Knowledgetransfer and impact, transforming knowledge into practical solutions for organisations, public administrations and society.

Specific objectives

GITDCom aims to be a leading centre for research into digital communication in Spain, providing insights and solutions that address the sector’s current and future challenges.

  • 1.  To investigate the impact of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies on communication ecosystems.
  • 2.  To design, evaluate and validate strategic communication models capable of improving the relationship between organisations, institutions, brands and the public in digital environments.
  • 3.  To analyse how communication can promote wellbeing, digital literacy, education and civic engagement.
  • 4.  To develop evidence-based, innovative methodologies, tools and solutions to address the challenges of digital transformation.
  • 5.  To promote interdisciplinary projects that integrate research, innovation and collaboration with businesses, public administrations and social organisations

general information

The Research Group on Innovation and Digital Transformation in Communication (GITDCom) carries out scientific research aimed at understanding, explaining and transforming the communication processes that shape digital society.

Our research activity brings together communication, artificial intelligence, social sciences, education, health, technology and organisational studies to tackle the major challenges arising from digital transformation from an interdisciplinary, ethical and evidence-based perspective.

The group organises its research around three strategic programmes covering the study of artificial intelligence and digital ecosystems, strategic communication in organisations and digital experiences, and communication for wellbeing, education and digital citizenship. This structure enables us to carry out research with scientific impact and practical application in areas such as corporate communication, public communication, digital literacy, health, sustainability, educational innovation, reputation, digital platforms and emerging technologies.

Three areas for exploring the future of research

  • Artificial intelligence, digital ecosystems and social transformation.
  • Strategic communication, organisations and digital experiences.
  • Communication for wellbeing. Education and digital citizenship.

OUR RESEARCHERS

Research is a key focus of our teachers’ work.

To achieve this objective, we have a team of outstanding researchers who carry out their studies and research in various areas of Design and Technology.

INTERNAL RESEARCHERS

Dr. Bárbara Castillo Abdul

She holds two doctorates: a PhD Cum Laude in Communication (University of Huelva, with International Mention) and in Social and Legal Sciences (Uni

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Syed Ali Hussain

PhD in Media and Information Studies from Michigan State University. Her research focuses on health communication, public campaign design and evaluation, intercultural communication and social media engagement analysis, with a focus on narratives, emotions (especially nostalgia) and digital environments.

Dra. María Soledad Ramírez Montoya

Doctora en Filosofía y Ciencias de la Educación por la Universidad de Salamanca (USAL), donde también estudió el Másterde Tecnología Educativa. Cuenta con del grado de Licenciatura en Ciencias de la Educación por el Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora. Profesora investigadora senior y miembro Nivel 3 del Sistema Nacional de Investigadores (SNI) de México, participa en programas doctorales de América, Asia, Europa y funge como advisor internacional en la Universidad de Diseño, Innovación y Tecnología (UDIT).

Como Chair UNESCO e ICDE del Movimiento Educación Abierta para América Latina, articula redes de formación e investigación para impulsar el acceso equitativo al aprendizaje y fortalecer capacidades para impulsar una educación de calidad para todos. Su investigación se centra en las líneas de educación y ciencia abierta e innovación educativa. 

Lidera grupos de investigación y proyectos innovadores a través de redes globales basados en Educación y Ciencia Abierta, Tecnologías 5.0 y colaboración intersectorial, con énfasis en el desarrollo sostenible

Dr. Carlos Fernández Rodríguez

Dr. Juan Cayón Peña

Mujer sonriente de pie junto a una pared de madera en un espacio moderno y luminoso.

DRA. Marisa Sarget Tarifa

She holds a PhD in Information Sciences and has more than fifteen years of experience in the university field, where she has develope

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EXTERNAL RESEARCHERS

Massimo Ragnedda

Massimo Ragnedda is recognised as one of the top 2% of the world's leading researchers, according to Stanford University's prestigious "World's Top 2% Scientists" list. This distinction highlights his contributions to research and scholarly activity, placing him among the most influential researchers in various scientific disciplines. His extensive publication record reflects both his standing in the field and his ability to produce high quality research within established deadlines. He has authored nine monographs (published by Routledge, Palgrave and Emerald Publishing), with a tenth in preparation with Routledge. In addition, he has edited eight books (with Palgrave, Routledge, Lexington Books and Amsterdam University Press), coordinated 11 special issues and contributed approximately 90 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters. His work has been published in English, Italian, Spanish, Russian and Portuguese.

Un hombre vestido elegantemente en un entorno de palmeras.

Muhammad Awais

PhD in Communication Studies from the University of the Punjab. Specialist in computational social science, with expertise in quantitative data analysis, text mining and use of tools such as R and Python. His lines of work include digital communication, artificial intelligence, media analysis and global comparative studies.

César Chacón

César Chacón Sánchez is a professional with more than 18 years of experience in audience research, media analysis and communication, currently linked to the European Commission in the field of digital competition. His career combines work in large international consultancies such as Kantar and WPP with the development of communication and branding strategies based on data. In addition, he has actively contributed to the academic and professional environment in Spain, integrating applied research, teaching and strategic analysis of digital communication.

FURTHER INFORMATION