PhD in geography, with emphasis on economic and development geographies.
I hold a PhD from the Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies CURDS, Newcastle University (UK), I am also a fellow of the Regional Studies Association (RSA). My area of expertise lies on economic geography, with emphasis on rural, local and regional development. I am interested in processes of economic geographies, including sustainable transformations, development geographies and diverse economies, and in understanding the geographical processes and results of regional development paths, uneven development and institutions. Theoretically, my point of departure is uneven development, local and regional development theories, and diverse economies. Empirically, my strongest point are compared case studies, and have experience working in Latin America and Europe.
I am currently involved in two research projects. The project titled 'Socio-economic transformations in Latin America' explores the sustainable transformation of consolidated industries, as well as the opportunities for sustainable pathways in emerging industries with case studies in Colombia (medicinal cannabis) and Costa Rica (ecoturism). The project titled 'Improving Inclusive Innovation Outcomes (I3O)', is an emerging global program and a collaboration with colleagues at Newcastle University (UK) and Pittsburgh University (US). The programme is seeking to develop and test approaches that mainstream inclusion purposes and considerations in STRI-led growth policy and practice. Its aim is to create a ‘community of practice’, and a body of academic and policy advice that improves delivery of inclusive growth.
I have taught courses in Human Geography and Sustainable Development at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. My experience extends to developing course curricula, designing assessments, and creating engaging learning environments that foster critical thinking and curiosity, and extend to teaching in different universities in Colombia, the UK, and Sweden, which has equipped me with the skills to navigate teaching and education within diverse cultural contexts.