About
I am an urban environmental historian based in the history department at the University of Liverpool. My research critically examines attempts to create more liveable and humane urban environments in the present and the past. I'm currently working as a Postdoctoral Research Associate on the Wellcome-funded Melting Metropolis project, exploring everyday experiences of urban heat in London using archival and oral history methods.
I have previously published work on urban environmental history, community activism and children’s geographies. My first book, Designed for Play, was published in 2024 and explored the social and environmental history of the children’s playground. My next book will explore community responses to extreme heat in London.
My research has also featured on BBC Radio, the Conversation, BBC History Magazine and History Workshop Online. I have provided expert opinion to Parliament, developed policy for local and regional authorities, and carried out a wide range of community and public engagement activities. My research activities have been funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, Wellcome Trust, Royal Historical Society and Scouloudi Foundation.
Before moving into academia, I worked as a heritage practitioner and project manager, securing and managing over £15m in funding for research, landscape restoration and community engagement projects across the UK.
Prizes or Honours
- Alexander Prize (runner up) (Royal Historical Society, 2022)
Funded Fellowships
- Early Career Fellowship (2023)