Jennifer Davidson

Professor Jennifer Davidson is the Executive Director of the Institute for Inspiring Children’s Futures and its doctoral research centre at the University of Strathclyde. She leads global initiatives addressing structural barriers to children’s potential, particularly in adversity, and integrates children’s rights into UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her work includes the Justice for Children Global Initiative and the award-winning COVID 4P Log for Children's Wellbeing app, which engaged 22 countries.

Education:

• Post-Graduate Certificate in Human Rights Law (2007-2009, Universities of Glasgow/Strathclyde)
• Master of Social Work (1994-1997, University of British Columbia)
• Bachelor of Social Work (1987-1991, McGill University)

Research Focus: Jennifer’s work centers on children’s rights implementation, alternative care systems, and policy-to-practice translation. She emphasizes mechanisms for sustainable impact, such as embedding rights frameworks in public services and SDG delivery.

Key Projects & Awards:

• Secured £75M+ in grants for child welfare initiatives
• OBE (2020) for services to children globally
• 2023 Scottish Knowledge Exchange Award for the COVID 4P Log

Advisory & Grants: Jennifer advises UN committees and international bodies, leading projects like the UN Guidelines for Alternative Care handbook. Her grants fund systemic reforms in child protection and care systems.

Labs & Teams: She directs the Institute for Inspiring Children’s Futures and the Centre for Excellence for Children’s Care and Protection (CELCIS), fostering multidisciplinary collaboration.