Elizabeth Thurbon

Professor Elizabeth Thurbon is a leading academic in International Political Economy at UNSW Sydney, affiliated with the School of Social Sciences within the Faculty of Arts, Design and Architecture (ADA). She serves as Deputy Head of School, Director of Research, and Director of the Green Energy Statecraft Project, a multi-university collaboration.

• Education: PhD in Government (International Political Economy) from the University of Sydney; BEc. (Soc. Sci) with First-Class Honours and University Medal.

Her research focuses on developmental states, clean energy transitions, and economic statecraft, particularly in East Asia. Her work synthesizes Schumpeterian and Developmental State theories to analyze green energy strategies, including hydrogen fuel cells, smart grid technology, and electric vehicle industries.

Recent research trends include:

• Strategic state interventions in renewable energy sectors
• Impact of geostrategic rivalry on global green shifts
• Policy frameworks for energy transition governance

Scientific Awards:

• AIPEN Richard Higgott Journal Article Prize (2019) for 'Power Paradox'

She has secured major grants including:

• Australian Research Council Discovery Project (DP190103669)
• Academy of Korean Studies Laboratory Grant (AKS-2018-LAB-1250001)
• Commonwealth Department of Defence Strategic Policy Grant (Weaponised Trade)
• UNSW Scientia Fellowship (2019-2022)