David Gilbert

David Gilbert is a Professor of Urban and Historical Geography at Royal Holloway University of London, affiliated with the Department of Geography and the Royal Holloway Centre for the GeoHumanities. His research focuses on modern London's urbanism, fashion cultures, suburban geographies, religious communities, and imperial histories. He holds a D.Phil from the University of Oxford (1989) and a BSc from the University of Cambridge (1982).

Research interests include London's global fashion economy, suburban cultural geographies, faith communities' creativity, and the interplay between urban planning and historical narratives. Notable projects include AHRC-funded studies on suburban faith communities and post-war fashion in London. He collaborates closely with the Museum of London, contributing to its academic advisory panel since 2017.

Teaching includes introductory human geography courses and MA modules on urban culture. He has supervised 18 PhD students, including UKRI Collaborative Doctoral Awards. Administrative roles include Department Head (2011-2014), Vice Principal for Quality and Standards (2017-2021), and leading TEF submissions (2022-2023).