Brandon Marc Finn

Brandon Marc Finn is an Assistant Research Scientist in the Urban Sustainability Research Group and core faculty member of the Center for Sustainable Systems at the University of Michigan. His interdisciplinary work bridges urbanization, informality, and resource extraction, particularly in African contexts. He holds a PhD in Urban Planning from Harvard University, an MSc in Urban Studies from University College London, and a BSocSci in Environmental and Geographical Sciences from the University of Cape Town.

His research focuses on the unintended consequences of decarbonization, examining global supply chains in the Democratic Republic of Congo (cobalt/copper) and Ghana (e-waste). He argues that informality is central to sustainable development, particularly in climate resilience and just transitions. Current projects include analyzing artisanal mining practices' role in decarbonization and assessing informality's impact on urban climate policies.

Brandon's work spans multiple regions, with fieldwork in sub-Saharan Africa, Iran, and Southeast Asia. He critiques neocolonial legacies in urban development and advocates for inclusive urban planning frameworks. His recent studies highlight how historical colonial policies exacerbate modern urban disparities, especially in pandemic responses and infrastructure governance.

Though no formal awards are listed, his contributions to redefining urban sustainability frameworks have been influential in academic circles. His research integrates spatial justice, resource governance, and global development challenges, offering critical insights into equitable urban futures.