What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
I completed my Higher Secondary Education in India, studying six subjects including Geography, Economics, and Political Science.
What degrees and PhD did you study?
I completed my undergraduate degree in Geography (Hons) from the University of North Bengal in India, before coming to the University of Liverpool to study for an MBA in Environmental Management. I developed a passion for this area of research and continued my studies at Liverpool, completing a PhD in Environmental Assessment and Management.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
My inspiration for choosing my degree and career path came from my experiences during childhood. My father worked at Coal India Limited, a coal mining company and the largest public sector company in India. I saw first-hand how mining works and witnessed the impact that developmental activities can have, as well as the extent to which some impacts can be mitigated.
I realised that with the right leadership and intentions, organisations can successfully incorporate environmental management within their activities. Understanding environmental management is vital to reducing and mitigating impacts, and this inspired me to study the subject in depth at university. This ultimately led to a fulfilling career that I am truly passionate about.
What key skills did you learn at university?
University provided a fantastic opportunity to develop a wide range of skills. One of the most valuable skills I learnt — and continue to use — is engaging with subjects using interdisciplinary approaches. I learnt to communicate across different disciplines and nationalities, combining knowledge, research, and perspectives in order to work collaboratively towards a common goal.
What jobs have you had during your career?
I’ve had a variety of roles during my time studying and working in Liverpool, including working as a librarian, helping with activities and events for the Liverpool Guild of Students, serving as an external examiner, and continuing to be the editor of the International Journal of Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal.
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I’m currently a Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Environmental Planning and Management in the Department of Geography and Planning. My job involves a wide range of activities, including teaching and research. I really enjoy sharing my passion for the subject and discussing the latest developments in the sector, which helps to motivate and empower students.
Do you have an area of expertise?
My expertise lies in Environmental Assessment and Management, helping to protect and preserve the environment from the impacts of development. I explore ways to make policies, plans, programmes, and projects more environmentally sustainable.
In 2025, I was a guest panellist at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) — the UN process for negotiating agreements to limit dangerous climate change. I was part of the panel discussing “Artificial Intelligence and Technological Advancements for Policy Impact Assessments.” It was a great opportunity to connect our findings from the International Association for Impact Assessment 2025 with the UNFCCC.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
I am fortunate to have enjoyed working on all of my projects and research. When you’re passionate about a topic, it’s always enjoyable — even with the challenges. I particularly enjoyed a multidisciplinary project collaborating with architects, historians, and heritage experts on cultural heritage tourism and exploring how sustainability can be enhanced in this area.
I’m currently working with colleagues in Pakistan on research into how AI is going to influence environmental assessment in developing countries. In the near future, I’m looking forward to developing more research on gender and sustainability — a fascinating aspect of environmental assessment that is still in its infancy but becoming increasingly important.
In addition to my research, I’m passionate about helping and mentoring other women in academia to navigate the challenges of modern life and the expectations of balancing work, research, and family. It’s always a challenge to find the right balance.
What are your top tips for working in your industry?
Never be scared to ask questions or say ‘I don’t know’. In order to grow and evolve, you have to constantly learn.
Any advice you’d like to share?
Study a subject you truly enjoy. Many people think success means chasing high-salary professions, but if you do what you love and strive for excellence in what you deliver, you’ll find greater fulfilment and achievement in your career.
Why are you passionate about your career?
It’s an honour to have a job that can make a real difference to the future of our environment and have a positive impact on people and the world around us. I have always been passionate about making a difference and turning that passion into effective contribution.
I’m proud of the students I have taught, who have carried this legacy into their own careers and are equally passionate about contributing to a better society.
More resources
Video: Documentary film on Blue-Green Infrastructure
Video: Studying Postgraduate Taught (Masters) programmes in the School of Environmental Sciences
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