Cathrine Bjerknes

Cathrine Bjerknes is an Associate Professor at the Department of Kindergarten Teacher Education, Faculty of Teacher Education and International Studies, Oslo Metropolitan University. Her academic work bridges literature, education, and social justice, with a strong emphasis on marginalized voices in Nordic and indigenous contexts.

Her research interests include:

• Gender and gender research
• Queer theory
• Postcolonialism
• Sámi and indigenous literature
• Children's and picture books
• Decolonial and intersectional literary studies
• Literary activism and narrative resistance

Her recent publications explore queer and decolonial narratives in Sámi literature, the role of picture books in early math education, and literary representations of Arctic identity. The articles reflect a consistent focus on social justice, diversity, and inclusion, particularly in educational and literary contexts. Themes such as hybrid heroines, coming-out narratives, and indigenous environmental justice recur across her work.

She is affiliated with research groups on:

• Cultural diversity and multilingualism in a global perspective
• Diversity, sexual health and sexuality in the profession and society
• Challenging picture books in the classroom: rethinking language and literature education

Her scientific contributions include peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, research reports, and public dissemination. While no formal awards are listed, her work is widely published and engaged with critical social issues. She has contributed to projects amplifying children’s voices and promoting inclusive teacher education, indicating active involvement in pedagogical development and mentorship.

Bjerknes also collaborates on interdisciplinary initiatives related to early childhood education, gender research, and indigenous rights, often in partnership with centers like KILDEN and the Center for Interdisciplinary Gender Research.