Jeffrey Rose

Jeffrey Rose, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism at the University of Utah, with affiliate appointments in Environmental Humanities and Environmental and Sustainability Studies. Previously, he taught geography and environmental studies at Davidson College. His institutional appointments include roles as Assistant Professor (Lecturer) in Health-Kinesiology and Parks, Recreation, and Tourism prior to his current position.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, University of Utah (2012)
• M.A. in Geography, San Diego State University (2006)
• B.S. in Mathematics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2001)

Research Focus: Rose employs political ecology frameworks to examine nature-society relations through social and environmental justice lenses. His work critically analyzes systemic inequities related to homelessness across urban-wildland interfaces, park management, outdoor recreation, and social-ecological systems. Research methodologies emphasize qualitative and spatial analysis of class, race, and political economy dynamics in public spaces and environmental management.

Publication Trends: Recent articles (2022-2025) demonstrate concentrated focus on homelessness in park settings, transportation equity for vulnerable populations, climate change impacts on recreation, and methodological innovations in qualitative research. Recurring themes include justice-oriented analyses of public space management, stakeholder conflict resolution, and community-engaged approaches to environmental governance.

Awards & Honors:

• Distinguished Teaching Award, College of Health (2018)
• Faculty Foundation Fellows Program, University of Utah (2018)

Grants & Advising: Secured multiple external grants from agencies including the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Utah Department of Health, primarily addressing homelessness interventions, visitor management, and environmental conservation. Current projects include a youth homelessness needs assessment (2025) and visitor management planning for George Washington Memorial Parkway. Teaching encompasses doctoral supervision and courses in political ecology, qualitative methods, and recreation leadership.