Jake is a PhD researcher in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia. His research explores the governance of the transition to net zero, with a particular focus on democratic legitimacy, public participation and the role of expertise in climate policy. His doctoral research examines how technocratic, deliberative and co-productive approaches to governance shape the development and implementation of net-zero policy, and how different forms of public involvement influence trust, accountability and the durability of climate action.
His wider research interests span environmental politics and governance, sustainability transitions, environmental justice, science and society, public policy and democratic innovation. He is particularly interested in participatory and co-productive approaches to research and policymaking, the relationship between communities and institutions, and how environmental knowledge and different forms of expertise shape decision-making.
Alongside his research, Jake works within Norfolk County Council’s Environment Service, where he has experience developing and delivering sustainability and environmental projects at a local level. His work has included the delivery of the 1 Million Trees for Norfolk programme, supporting woodland creation, biodiversity and community engagement, and working with local authorities, landowners, communities and partner organisations. This practical experience of environmental policy and delivery informs his interest in how ambitious environmental objectives are translated into action.
Jake holds an MSc in Environmental Assessment and Management from the University of East Anglia. His postgraduate research examined the treatment of socio-economic impacts within Environmental Impact Assessment for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects in the UK, developing his broader interests in environmental decision-making and the relationship between evidence, policy and practice.
