School of Sociology and Social Policy

Research Associate

I joined CIRCLE in May 2012 after completing my doctoral studies in the School of Sociology & Social Policy, University of Leeds.  My PhD explored community engagement, including both formal and informal modes of participation, within a case study of a housing estate in Leeds.  During my PhD, I worked as a teaching assistant in the School, and continue to lecture occasionally on the topic of researching the voluntary sector, and on user involvement and disability organisations.  Previously, I have worked as a researcher on projects looking at Human Rights Education; disability and employment; and young children’s use of media and new technologies, based at the University of Sheffield and at the UNESCO Centre, University of Ulster.  I have also carried out research for the Leeds Community Foundation as part of a placement won through the Leeds Social Sciences Institute in 2011, and have strong links with voluntary, community and faith organisations across Leeds.  Currently I sit on the Board of Directors of a local voluntary organisation.  I am keen to maintain strong links with the sector, and to find ways of disseminating research findings in accessible ways.