Lucy Michaels

Lucy Michaels is an interdisciplinary scholar at the University of Hertfordshire's Centre for Agriculture, Food and Environmental Management. Her work bridges environmental studies and social sciences, focusing on food systems transformation, climate change communication, and transboundary water management. She leads the UKRI-funded BeanMeals project, introducing UK-grown beans into school meals while analyzing policy and dietary impacts.

• PhD in Environmental Studies (Ben-Gurion University of the Negev)
• MA and BA in International Development and Social Anthropology (University of Manchester)

Michaels' research explores systemic innovations in food systems, including school meal policy, public procurement, and community dietary shifts. She investigates how educational interventions and community engagement can mainstream sustainable practices in deprived areas. Her work also spans environmental peacebuilding in the Jordan River Basin and energy sustainability transitions in Israel.

Recent publications highlight her expertise in climate policy, food systems, and corporate accountability. Awards include UKRI, AHRC, and EU Marie Curie grants. She has taught at De Montfort University, Arava Institute, and Schumacher College, with advocacy roles at Corporate Watch, ASEED Europe, and Greenpeace International.

Scientific Awards & Grants:

• UKRI (BBSRC) Transforming UK Food Systems grant
• AHRC grant for Ecological Belongings project
• EU Marie Curie post-doctoral fellowship
• Visiting Research Fellowship at De Montfort University