Laura Harrison

Dr Laura Harrison is a Researcher in the Department of Environment and Geography and the School for Business and Society at the University of York. She holds a PhD in Ecology from the University of Leeds, an MRes in Ecology and Environmental Management from the University of York, and a BA in Biological Sciences from Oxford University. Her work bridges academic research and policy, focusing on ecosystem functioning, health-environment co-benefits, and stakeholder engagement.

Research Interests: Harrison’s expertise spans nature-based interventions for health and wellbeing, ecological risk assessment, and food systems sustainability. She collaborates with organizations like the HEY Smile Foundation and the West Yorkshire Flood Innovation Programme to integrate environmental quality into health policies and green social prescribing. Her systems approach addresses multi-benefit delivery for nature and human health, particularly in vulnerable communities.

Publications Trends: Her recent work emphasizes solar energy’s ecological potential, nature-positive investments, and participatory approaches to food systems resilience. Earlier research includes invasive species management and connectivity in ecological networks.

Grants & Partnerships: Funded projects include the West Yorkshire Flood Innovation Programme and collaborations with NextEnergy Capital on solar park investments. She co-directs the Leeds Mindfulness Co-operative CIC, addressing health inequalities through nature-based training.

Labs/Teams: Active in interdisciplinary teams at the University of York, including the Biodiversity and Ecosystem Service Sustainability Directorate and the YESI Knowledge Exchange fellowship program.