Matthew Sparkes

Matthew Sparkes is an Assistant Professor in Sociology at the University of Cambridge and a Director of Studies and Fellow in Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS) at Lucy Cavendish College. His work focuses on social inequalities, neoliberal political economy, and financialisation, with a strong emphasis on class, gender, and cultural dynamics.

• Joined Cambridge in 2014
• Course organiser for Global Social Problems (SOC3) and Sociology Dissertations
• Organiser of the Social Class Reading Group

Matthew's research explores the intersections of debt markets, social stratification, and policy responses during crises. His recent work examines mortgage prisoners, credit payment holidays during the pandemic, and the cultural narratives shaping economic policies.

Key trends in his publications include: analyzing debt as a social stratification mechanism (2018–2024), critiquing neoliberal financialisation (2019–2024), and interdisciplinary approaches combining sociology, economics, and cultural studies. His articles frequently address UK-specific debt policies and their mental health impacts.

• Tier 2 Cambridge Humanities Research Grant (2024)
• Dame Anne Warburton Award (2024)

Matthew's advocacy for equality, diversity, and inclusion is rooted in his working-class upbringing in Wakefield, England. He integrates his lived experiences into research on classism and initiatives promoting inclusivity at Lucy Cavendish College.