Eilidh MacPhail

Eilidh MacPhail is an Associate Professor of Sustainable Rural and Island Development at the University of the Highlands and Islands, affiliated with the North West and Hebrides campus and the Sustainability Studies Energy Innovation Team. As Programme Leader for the BSc Sustainable Development, she teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Research Interests: Her work spans public policy, devolution, rural and island community development, and social policy, with a focus on Scottish and European Union contexts. Key themes include the Europeanisation of the Scottish Executive, sub-national governance, and the impact of EU policies on employment and social inclusion in rural areas.

Research Trends: Recent publications highlight her engagement with mental health in online education, knowledge exchange strategies, and European Union governance mechanisms. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those addressing sustainable communities and social inclusion.

Scientific Awards

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy

Advising & Grants: While no specific advisees are listed, her ESRC-funded PhD (2004–2008) and UK Government scholarship to the College of Europe (2001–2002) underscore her academic foundation. She has also contributed to peer-reviewed journals and book chapters.