My interest lies at the intersection of geography, environmental science and developmental studies and encompasses many areas in the study of human-environment interactions.
My PhD in Geography from the University of Leeds integrated methods from social network analysis, neo-institutionalism and ecosystem services valuation. I hold an MSc in Environmental Sciences from Wageningen University, The Netherlands and a B.Tech in Geography from the Federal University of Technology, Yola, Nigeria. Having educational training exposure in three countries has really enriched my teaching and research. Prior to joining York St John University, I have taught at universities in Nigeria and United Kingdom and have been a recipient of some fellowships including The Netherlands Fellowship (NFP) and the Commonwealth Academic Fellowship (CSFP).
As a geographer, I adopt an interdisciplinary teaching approach that helps to develop meaningful links between different fields in ways that intrigue and motivate students, pushing us towards more powerful thinking in which we make comparisons, bridge disciplines, span eras, and encourage the application of knowledge. Integrating knowledge generated through my research into teaching help students to think outside the box and become better critical and independent thinkers.
I lead the second year module 'Sustainability: Global Environmental Challenges'. I contribute to other modules including Critical Thinking and Academic Skills in Geography, Geography Fieldwork Studies, Research Projects and Dissertation.
I hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice and am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).
I am interested in innovative interdisciplinary co-produced research positioned at the intersection of geography, environmental science and development studies. I use interdisciplinary perspectives to understand and proffer solutions to environmental challenges by feeding findings and outputs of academic research into policy. Specifically, I am interested in research that concern ecosystem service valuation, climate change governance, flood risk management, environment and natural resource politics. I am also interested in internationalisation and employability issues in higher education.
Ongoing research projects and grants
- Co-investigator, "Embracing social learning in the management of ecosystem services in Chonguene District, Gaza Province, Mozambique". Funded by The Rising from the Depths network.
- October 2021 to October 2022: Co-investigator, "Suitcase Stories: Exploring Climate Adaptation through Participatory Storytelling with Young People". Funded by The Natural Environment Research Council.
Completed projects and grants
- Supporting Young People to Become International Creative Talents: Educational Enterprise Collaborations between Shanghai and Liverpool. Funded by Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC). Co-Investigator.
- Promoting climate-resilient aquaculture through shared space for co-designing adaptation measures. Funded by Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng). Principal investigator.
- Sustainable ship breaking process for cleaner environment and better wellbeing. Funded by Royal Academy of Engineering (RAEng). Co-Investigator.
Recent publications
Community engagement
I am on the Stakeholder Advisory Group for the York Community Woodland project and the City of York Council's 'York Sustainability Group'.
Membership of professional organisations
- Ecosystem Service Partnership (ESP)
- International Association for the Study of the Commons (IASC)
- Royal Geographical Society (with Institute of British Geographers) (RGS)
