Robin Finlay

Robin Finlay is a Partnerships Manager and Research Associate at the University of Sunderland's Institute for Economic and Social Inclusion. He specializes in human geography and sociology, focusing on lived diversity, socio-cultural inequalities, and place. His research spans diaspora studies, migration policy, urban multiculture, and youth marginalization. Previously, he was a Lecturer in Human Geography at Durham University and held research roles at Newcastle University, LSE Cities, and the Home Office. He has led interdisciplinary projects supported by UKRI and HERA, including studies on refugee youth and public space, and the impacts of austerity on asylum seekers. His work emphasizes ethical research methodologies and policy-relevant insights.

Finlay has contributed to over 40 peer-reviewed articles, exploring topics such as anti-Muslim racism in Scotland, migrant experiences during the pandemic, and the spatial dimensions of Islamophobia. His research often bridges academic inquiry with practical policy recommendations, particularly in urban and refugee inclusion contexts. Collaborations include projects with third-sector organizations and international institutions like the LSE.

His current role involves managing partnerships to advance economic and social inclusion agendas, while maintaining an active research profile. Notable projects include analyzing refugee youth resilience in European cities and investigating the 'hostile environment' policies in the UK. Despite no explicit awards listed, his contributions to migration and urban studies have influenced policy dialogues in the UK and beyond.