Karen Turner

Professor Karen Turner is a Professor and Director of the Centre for Energy Policy at the University of Strathclyde, which she founded in 2014. She leads research funded by UK Research and Innovation, philanthropic organizations, and government bodies. Her work focuses on ensuring equitable and sustainable transitions to net zero, influencing policy and public discourse on energy efficiency, electric vehicles, and carbon capture and storage.

Education:

• PhD in Economics, University of Strathclyde (2002)
• MSc Economics, University of Glasgow (1999)
• BA (1st Class Honours) in Economics, University of Strathclyde (1998)

Research Interests:
Her research examines the economy-wide consequences of energy policy and industry developments, particularly in enabling decarbonization solutions. Key areas include:

• Economic impacts of energy transitions
• Public policy challenges in deploying large-scale decarbonization technologies
• Equitable prosperity in net-zero transitions

Advising and Grants:
Professor Turner supervises PhD students and has led over 50 projects, including:

• UK Energy Research Centre Phase 5 (EPSRC-funded, 2024–2028)
• Developing a mixed methods approach for low-carbon heat transition in Scotland (Energy Action Scotland, 2024–2027)

Labs/Teams:
As Director of the Centre for Energy Policy, she collaborates with institutions like the National Infrastructure Commission and the Climate Change Committee. The Centre focuses on interdisciplinary research to address global energy challenges.