About
I am an environmental historian researching how people experience, adapt to and shape urban environments in a changing climate.
My research examines how people have sought to create more liveable, healthy and humane cities, both historically and in the present day. I am currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate on the Wellcome-funded Melting Metropolis project, where I investigate experiences of heatwaves and overheating in London using archival research and oral history methods.
My work spans urban and environmental history, as well as the histories and geographies of childhood. My first book, Designed for Play (2024), explored the social and environmental history of the children's playground. I am currently developing a second book on community experiences of and responses to extreme heat in London.
My research has featured on BBC Radio, The Conversation, BBC History Magazine and The Big Issue. I have provided expert evidence to Parliament, contributed to policy development for local and regional authorities, and led a wide range of public and community engagement activities. My research has been supported by the Arts and Humanities Research Council, Wellcome, the Royal Historical Society and the Scouloudi Foundation.
Before entering academia, I worked in the heritage sector as a practitioner and project manager, securing and managing more than £15 million in funding for research, landscape restoration and community engagement projects across the UK.
Funded Fellowships
- Early Career Fellowship (2023)