Brian J. Burke

Brian J. Burke serves as an Associate Professor in the Goodnight Family Sustainable Development Department at Appalachian State University, where he teaches sustainability economics and development. His research critically examines intersections of environmental justice, alternative economies, and socio-political transformation through the lens of political ecology and political economy.

His academic credentials include:

• Ph.D. in Anthropology, University of Arizona (2012)
• M.A. in Anthropology, University of Arizona (2006)
• B.A., Williams College (2002)

Burke's scholarly work centers on grassroots movements for socio-ecological change, with particular emphasis on how material conditions and cultural processes interact to enable or constrain transformative possibilities. His regional expertise spans Latin America (especially Colombia, Brazil, and Paraguay) and the United States (particularly southern Appalachia and the US-Mexico border). Methodologically, he champions community-based and activist research approaches that directly serve movement goals while challenging dominant knowledge production paradigms.

Analysis of his 12 publications since 2010 reveals persistent engagement with solidarity economies, climate adaptation through local knowledge systems, and the democratization of science communication. His scholarship consistently bridges theoretical rigor with practical movement support, examining barter systems in Medellín, rural cooperatives in Latin America, and environmental discourse in Appalachian media.

While specific current grant details aren't provided, Burke's prior post-doctoral work with the Coweeta Listening Project and Coweeta LTER Program demonstrates sustained commitment to collaborative, place-based research. His office is located in 211 Living Learning Academic building at Appalachian State University, where he continues to develop curriculum like SD 3375: Sustainability, Economics, and Development.