Professor Ella Pereira is Professor of Computing in the Department of Computer Science at Edge Hill University. Her research focuses on key enabling technologies, including distributed systems, the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud, fog, and edge computing. She is also interested in the application of artificial intelligence and data analytics to healthcare and other interdisciplinary domains. Alongside her research, she is actively involved in curriculum development, research leadership, doctoral training, industry engagement, and research impact generation.

Ella holds a PhD in Distributed Systems from Liverpool John Moores University, an MSc in Computer Systems, and a BSc in Mechanical Engineering (CAD/CAM) from Georgian Technical University. Prior to joining academia, she gained industry experience as a software developer.

With more than 20 years of academic experience, Ella has established an international research profile, publishing extensively and receiving recognition through best paper awards and acknowledgements for research leadership. She chairs and organises international conferences and workshops and serves as an editor and reviewer for academic journals, books, and conference proceedings.

As Director of Research and Knowledge Exchange within her department, Ella leads the development of its research strategy and profile and has coordinated successful submissions to both REF2014 and REF2021. She also played a key role in securing the Athena Swan Bronze Award for the department, demonstrating her commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in Computer Science. She is also deeply committed to advancing gender diversity in the technology sector, playing a pivotal role in national initiatives such as Skills Bootcamps to foster STEM education among underrepresented communities.

Professor Pereira has led and contributed to research and knowledge exchange projects with overall value exceeding £5 million. She is an experienced PhD supervisor and external examiner and is currently welcoming doctoral applicants interested in distributed intelligence, edge intelligence, and AI applications in healthcare.