I joined the School of Education as a Lecturer in Education in October 2023, transferring from the School of Social & Environmental Sustainability (University of Glasgow), where I had been based since January 2017. Previously, I have worked as an Associate Tutor in the School of Education, University of Glasgow. Originally from Poland, I completed both the Ph.D. (2009 - 2013) and MEd (2006 - 2007) degrees at the University of Glasgow.

I am an interdisciplinary researcher working at the intersections of sociology, gender studies, and educational studies. My research focuses on both micro and macro-level processes that shape gender inequalities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Non-formal education programs play a crucial role in addressing gender disparities and empowering individuals outside the formal education system. Therefore, my work centers on designing and testing training programs aimed at reducing gender bias in Sub-Saharan Africa. One of my key projects, "The Equality Project: Starting from Home", was conducted in collaboration with University partners and local NGOs in Kenya and Tanzania. This project was based on the idea that gender equality starts at home, where unequal cultural norms are initially taught and reinforced. The program's main message emphasized that spousal couples could work together as a team to develop a shared vision for their family, enabling them to achieve goals that would be difficult to achieve individually.

My current research focus is on domestic violence in informal settlements in Rwanda and the development of research-informed prevention models. Domestic violence is a pressing social issue with long-term consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Despite progress in Rwanda's political, social, and cultural realms, domestic violence remains a persistent problem, necessitating continued efforts to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies. When conducting this sensitive in nature research, together with partners from the University of Rwanda and a local NGO, we use innovative and therapeutic methods, including the "Tree of Life" narrative framework.

List by: Type | Date

2024 - 2025

Principal Investigator on the project entitled ‘Finding a Voice Through the Tree of Life Narrative: Stories of Domestic Violence Prevention’, funded by the Academic Returners and Research Support Grant, University of Glasgow (£10,000).

2024

Principal Investigator on the project entitled ‘Establishing Research Networks: An Overseas Institutional Visit to the University of Sao Paulo, Brazil’, funded by the GCID Small Grants Fund, University of Glasgow (£10,000).

2019 - 2021

Principal Investigator on the project entitled ‘The Equality Project: Starting From Home’, funded by the Global Challenges Research Fund, University of Glasgow (£72,000).

2019

Co-investigator on the project entitled ‘Workers by Self-Design: Digital Literacies and Women’s Changing Roles in Unstable Environments’, funded by the Scottish Funding Council, Global Challenges Research Fund (£27,260).

2017 – 2019

Co-investigator on the project entitled ‘Strengthening Urban Engagement of Universities in Africa and Asia’, funded by the British Academy, Cities & Infrastructure Programme (£298,500).

2017

Co-investigator on the project entitled ‘Strengthening the Regional Engagement Role of Universities in Africa and Asia’, funded by the Scottish Funding Council, Global Challenges Research Fund (£29,500).

2016 – 2017

Co-investigator on the project entitled ‘Film Education in Scottish Libraries’, funded by the Scottish Library and Information Council (£9,000).

I welcome inquiries and applications from potential PhD students who share any of my research interests, especially related to:

• gender inequalities in low- and middle-income countries
• constructions of gendered identities
• research on masculinities
• social inequalities and social justice in education (in particular in relation to children and young people)

Current PhD student:

• Vanderhoven, Ellen
  Dual apprenticeships in Mexico

My pedagogical philosophy is rooted in the belief that teaching should be student-centered and connected to students' personal experiences. My goal is to help students to become independent and critical thinkers. I believe that encouraging individuals to critically reflect on theory, research, policy, and practice can drive positive social change and promote greater social equality.

I have extensive experience as a course leader for various postgraduate and undergraduate courses including:

 Postgraduate courses

• Identities, Relationships and Behaviours  
• Perspectives on Youth and Young Adulthood
• Advanced Research Methods

Undergraduate courses

• Curriculum and Assessment 
• Education in Its Wider Context
• Research Methods in Education