About
Dr. Sharon Leahy is a Senior Lecturer and Researcher at the University of St Andrews' School of Geography and Sustainable Development. She also serves as Associate Dean Students (Science) from 2022 to 2025. Her research focuses on social geographies of marginalization, bordering practices, and the impact of immigration legislation. Key interests include racialization, urban equity, and the legitimization of state policies affecting migrants and ethnic minorities.
Leahy has critically examined the UK’s Immigration Acts (2014/2016), particularly the 'Right to Rent' scheme, analyzing its effects on housing markets and migrant exclusion. Her work bridges policy critique with grassroots resistance, emphasizing the 'everywhere border' concept. She supervises PhD students in borderwork, immigration state practices, and related areas.
Her publications span peer-reviewed journals like Sociology and Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, addressing topics such as housing governance, racialization dynamics, and biosecurity policy. She collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to explore sociolegal and environmental policy challenges, advocating for inclusive frameworks in urban and ecological contexts.
