About
Dr Anna Barker is an Associate Professor in Criminal Justice & Criminology at the School of Law, University of Leeds. She is a member of the Centre for Criminal Justice Studies and Centre for Law and Social Justice, and co-leads the Feminist Research into Violence and Abuse (FRIVA) network with Dr Rebecca Shaw. Her work focuses on urban public space safety, particularly for women and girls, and she collaborates with local authorities, police, and NGOs to develop evidence-based policies.
- Expertise in urban space regulation, VAWG, and mediated conviviality
- Key projects: Safer Parks for Women and Girls, GreenAWARE, Rethinking Parks
- Active in knowledge exchange via the Parks & Green Spaces Research Portal
Education:
- PhD in Criminology, University of Leeds (2012)
- MA Criminological Research (Distinction), University of Leeds (2007)
- PG Certificate in Higher Education Practice, University of Bradford
- BA (Hons) Social Science (First Class), University of Brighton (2005)
Research Themes:
Dr Barker’s research revolves around three interconnected themes: governance of urban public spaces (particularly parks), perceptions of (in)security and fear of crime, and social/cultural diversity in public environments. Her projects often integrate gender-sensitive design principles and community engagement to address safety gaps in urban planning.
Grants & Collaborations:
She has secured funding from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), Home Office, National Lottery Heritage & Community Funds, Big Lottery, and Nesta. Collaborations include West Yorkshire Combined Authority, West Yorkshire Police, Keep Britain Tidy, Make Space for Girls, and Leeds Women’s Aid.
Leadership & Outreach:
- Academic Impact & Engagement Co-Lead (2019–)
- Former Programme Manager for MSc Criminal Justice & Criminology and LLM Criminal Justice & Criminal Law (2018–2021)
- Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
- Professional memberships: British Society of Criminology, European Society of Criminology
