Roland is a PhD researcher at the University of Leicester, specializing in tangible culture, hobbyist communities, user innovation, and political communication. His academic interests encompass the comparative study of Warhammer and miniature modeling communities in the UK and East Asia, the organization and innovation dynamics of global craft networks, and the relationship between grassroots invention and professional practice. Roland’s research also explores contemporary Chinese social movements, with a particular focus on digital activism and state-society relations.
In addition to his scholarly work, Roland is an active maker, operating his own woodworking studio and participating in the military modeling community in the UK. He holds 8 international and 24 Chinese patents in product and tool design, reflecting a commitment to bridging theory and hands-on innovation. Roland founded the Tangible Culture and Society Studies Network (TCSSN) to connect scholars, practitioners, and enthusiasts who are passionate about the social and cultural significance of tangible creative practices.
Tangible Culture and Society Studies Network 