Jenny Peterson

Dr. Jenny Peterson is an Associate Professor of Teaching in the Department of Political Science at the University of British Columbia (UBC), affiliated with the Faculty of Arts. She holds a PhD from the University of Manchester (2008) and has prior teaching experience at the Humanitarian & Conflict Response Institute in Manchester. Her research focuses on international aid, peacebuilding critiques, and innovative approaches to justice movements. She co-leads the Human Rights Collective (HRC), fostering interdisciplinary collaboration on human rights issues across UBC’s faculties.

Her academic work spans topics like humanitarian action, conflict resolution, and the intersection of politics with human rights. She emphasizes experiential learning through initiatives like the Scholars in Prison project and Engagementships with Scholars at Risk. Dr. Peterson’s teaching interests include peace studies, international relations, and critical approaches to human rights advocacy.

Awards include the Black Faculty Hiring Award. She has conducted fieldwork in Kosovo, Sri Lanka, and Ghana, integrating practical experience into her scholarship. Her courses emphasize interdisciplinary engagement and ethical practice in global affairs.