Staff Profile
Miss Ruth Machen
Contact Miss Ruth Machen (email at k.r.m.machen@durham.ac.uk)
Biography
2011 - present: PhD Research: Climate Science-Climate Policy
2005 - 2011: Local Government - Climate Change and Renewable Energy Policy
2004 - 2005: Community Environmental Education Projects
2003 - 2004: MA Landscape and Culture - University of Nottingham
2000 - 2003: BA (hons) Geography - Durham University
Current Research
I am currently in my second year of doctoral research exploring the relationship between climate science and climate policy. My research focusses on the processes of exchange, often termed ‘translation’, that occur within boundary organisations within the Scottish context. I am interested in exploring the functioning of beliefs,values and worldviews at the science-policy interface and critically analysing the characterisation of this process of communication as a one of translation.
My research in Scotland is applying a mixed method approach to considering these questions through the study of climate science communication tools and exchange processes conducted by 'boundary organisations'. I am interested in the way in which the tools and processes of climate science-policy exchange may be understood as political sites of contestation in which particular beliefs and values are asserted, contested and negotiated.
Funding and Awards Secured
Ridgewind Scholarship - 2012
Durham Doctoral Studentship - 2011
DECC Local Carbon Framework Programme (for Northumberland County Council) - 2010
AHRB Masters Award - 2004