Jessica Espey

Jessica Espey is Associate Professor at the University of Southampton's School of Geography and Environmental Sciences, and Deputy Director of Research for WorldPop. She specializes in the international governance of sustainable development and climate change, focusing on the role of data and evidence in policymaking.

• Professor at University of Southampton
• Deputy Director, Research for WorldPop
• Expert in sustainable development governance

Her research interests center on science advisory systems, data epistemology, and the production of demographic statistics for sustainable development. She examines how geospatial data informs global policy frameworks and investigates new models of global urban governance.

Recent publications analyze the data revolution's impact on SDGs, territorial governance systems, and urban sustainability strategies. Current projects include research funded by the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation exploring evidence-informed policymaking in multilateral forums like the UN General Assembly and African Union.

Professional background includes:

• Director of UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (2014-2020)
• Advisor to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia
• Collaborations with On Think Tanks, Samahi Research, and African Centre for Cities