Darren Dancey is the Head of Department of Computing and Mathematics. 

Before this role, he held various positions within the Faculty of Science and Engineering since joining the University as a Lecturer in Computer Science in 2011.

He has a research background in Artificial Intelligence with a PhD in Artificial Neural Networks/Deep Learning.  His main contribution in this area was developing methods to address the so-called black-box problem of Artificial Intelligence systems to reveal how such systems are making decisions.

His teaching interests centre on software development and he has recently taught courses in Data Structures and Algorithms, Comparative Programming Languages and applied courses such as Web and Mobile Application Development. He is a strong advocate of industry and academia working together to solve the challenges facing society.  This has led to a range of projects funded by Innovate UK, the Digital R&D Fund for the Arts, and the European Research Council.   This desire for academia and industry to work together motivated him to launch the Degree Apprenticeship in Digital and Technology at Manchester Metropolitan University.  

Darren is currently leading the Widening Participation theme within the National Institute of Coding, which is a consortium of over 30 UK universities and 100 commercial and outreach partners working together to address the Digital Skills gap.

Darren is on the organising committee for the Manchester Raspberry Pi Jam, which hosts monthly events to encourage young people to develop skills in digital and technology, and sits on the Manchester Branch Committee of the BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT.

Darren joined the Board of Governors as a Staff Governor on 1 April 2019.