Robert Ralphs

Professor Robert Ralphs is a faculty member at Manchester Metropolitan University specializing in Criminology and Social Policy. With over 15 years of experience in researching substance misuse, youth crime, gangs, and criminal justice policy, he bridges academic inquiry with practical applications through consultancy and community engagement.

• Academic qualifications: PhD in Sociology (2005), Manchester Metropolitan University; MSc and BSc (1997, First Class) in Sociology from the University of Manchester and Salford respectively.

His research focuses on gang dynamics, substance misuse, and violent crime, with a particular emphasis on marginalized populations. Recent work explores synthetic cannabinoids, chemsex substances, and harm reduction strategies, often funded by grants such as the ESRC projects Youth Gangs in an English City and Governing Drug Related Crime in the Risk Society.

Rob contributes to public discourse on gangs and drug policy through media appearances and advisory roles. He is a Trustee of Mother's Against Violence, co-founded the Gun and Gang Independent Advisory Group, and collaborates with NGOs like the Angelus Foundation on harm reduction initiatives.

Teaching areas include criminological theory, youth justice, and substance use, with supervision offered in related topics. His work has informed policy at local, national, and international levels.