Nigel Cooper

Nigel Cooper is a Visiting Professor at Anglia Ruskin University's Faculty of Science and Engineering and a member of the Applied Ecology Research Group. He joined the Global Sustainability Institute as a Visiting Fellow in 2014. Previously, he served as University Chaplain at Anglia Ruskin (2005-2022) and is currently Chaplain at Churchill College, Cambridge. His academic credentials include an MA in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge, an MA in Theology from the University of Oxford, a PGCE, and a PG Cert in Biological Surveying. He was ordained as a deacon in 1983 and priest in 1984.

Cooper's research bridges ecological science and spiritual philosophy, focusing on:

• Valuation methodologies for ecosystem services through Critical Discourse Analysis
• Ethical critiques of economic approaches to nature conservation
• Integration of spiritual values in environmental management
• Historical and cultural dimensions of churchyard ecosystems
• Community-based environmental awareness initiatives

His publications demonstrate sustained focus on cultural and spiritual valuations of ecosystems, with recent work (2014-2019) emphasizing policy frameworks and interdisciplinary methodologies, while earlier studies (2000-2012) explore ethical foundations and historical conservation practices.

Professional recognitions include:

• Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology
• Fellow of the Linnean Society
• Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv)
• Professional Member of the Arboricultural Association

He contributes to university modules across faculties, previously teaching New Testament exegesis as Chaplain. He collaborates with the Applied Ecology Research Group and has led student sustainability initiatives.