John Harrison

Dr. John Harrison is a Professor of Human Geography and the School Associate Dean for Research & Innovation at Loughborough University's School of Social Sciences and Humanities. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Hunan University, China. His roles include Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Regional Studies and Board Member of the Regional Studies Association. He holds a PhD from Aberystwyth University.

His research focuses on regional planning, urban governance, energy systems, and spatial imaginaries. Notable interests include megaregions, sustainable development pathways, and the intersections of policy and urban theory. He has pioneered work on energy transition models and Starter Data Kits for LMICs, emphasizing open-source tools like OSeMOSYS.

Harrison's recent publications explore time in planning theory, Vietnam's energy pathways, and the digital evolution of regional studies. His awards include the 2015 Jim Lewis Prize for outstanding contributions to regional studies. He actively contributes to global academic governance through roles like Editor of Urban and Regional Horizons and Associate Director of the GaWC Prizes.

His professional trajectory includes roles from Lecturer (2006–2011) to Senior Lecturer (2012–2016), culminating in Reader (2016–present). He advocates for participatory governance frameworks and has shaped policy dialogues on metropolitan regions and climate resilience.