Julie Harris

Julie Harris is a Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Ulster University, affiliated with the School of Applied Social and Policy Sciences in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences. She is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and has been an active researcher and educator since joining Ulster University in 2018.

Education:

• PhD in Sociology, Queen’s University Belfast (2018)
• Master’s in Social Research Methods (Distinction), Queen’s University Belfast (2006)
• BA (Hons) in Politics, Queen’s University Belfast (2004)

Julie Harris's research focuses on drug use practices, harm reduction, drug markets, and policy, particularly in Northern Ireland. Her work examines the risk environments influencing drug-related behaviors and interventions to reduce harm. She has led and contributed to multiple research projects funded by the Public Health Agency, Carlisle House, the Rio Ferdinand Foundation, and the Department for the Economy. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates criminology, public health, and social policy to address complex substance use issues in post-conflict and vulnerable communities.

The 15 most recent articles reflect a strong focus on cocaine use, injecting drug behaviors, rehabilitation services, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on substance use services. Key themes include risk environments, youth involvement in drug markets, trauma, LGBTQ+ substance use, and policy responses. The research combines qualitative and quantitative methods, often in collaboration with NGOs and government bodies.

Scientific Awards:

• UUSU Learning and Teaching Awards: Inspirational Award (finalist, 2023)

Julie Harris has supervised numerous PhD researchers working on topics such as extremism, cocaine injecting, trauma and substance use, LGBTQ+ drug consumption, youth drug markets, and domestic abuse. She has secured research grants from key public and charitable bodies, demonstrating strong external funding capability. Her advisory work includes serving on the Department of Health’s Substance Use Strategy Research Group and providing expert oral evidence to the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs.

She is actively involved in research networks and policy roundtables, contributing to the development of evidence-based drug policy in Northern Ireland. Her work is closely tied to real-world service delivery and public health outcomes, often involving collaboration with organizations such as Barnardo’s, The Rainbow Project, and St. Peter's Immaculata Youth Centre.