Dr. David McKee is a computer scientist and technology entrepreneur associated with the University of Leeds. David is a Fractional CTO and technology leader across several organisations, including Counterpoint Technologies and education‑focused ventures, while chairing or advising digital engineering initiatives. Dr. McKee co-chairs the Digital Engineering Working of the Digital Twin Consortium, and is focused on digital twins, simulation, smart cities, and data‑intensive systems, often interfacing between academia, industry, and standards bodies.
David is best known for his work on large‑scale simulation and digital twins. He has held multiple research and teaching roles at the University of Leeds, including Research Fellow in the Distributed Systems and Services group and Big Data Systems Teaching Fellow, and completed his PhD in Computer Science there in 2017. David was the founder and former CEO/CTO of the Leeds spin‑out Slingshot Simulations.
Academic background
- Completed a PhD in Computer Science at the University of Leeds in 2017, focusing on real‑time quality of service in service‑oriented architectures and large‑scale simulation.
- Holds an ME in Computer Systems and Software Engineering from the University of York and undertook Erasmus studies in Modern Greek at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
Roles at University of Leeds
- Served as Research Fellow, Lab Manager, Assistant Lecturer, and Big Data Systems Teaching Fellow in the School of Computing, contributing to modules in operating systems, distributed systems, and big data.
- Currently works with the University of Leeds as a Strategic Advisor to the Think Break Create initiative and as CTO in Residence supporting innovation and researcher‑led enterprise.
Industry and entrepreneurship
- Founded University of Leeds spin‑out Slingshot Simulations, acting as CEO and CTO to build digital twin and simulation solutions for cities and complex systems.
- Has been recognised as a Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Fellow for work on “Massive‑Scale Simulation Eco‑Systems” and the “Internet of Simulation,” bridging academic research and commercial applications.