Karin Diaconu

Dr. Karin Diaconu serves as the Research Lead and Reader at Queen Margaret University's Institute for Global Health and Development (IGHD). She specializes in health policy and systems research, with a focus on complex interventions, health equity, and urban health. Her work spans Africa, the Middle East, and conflict-affected regions. Previously, she held roles at Plan International as Research Manager and as a Research Fellow at IGHD (2016–2021). She is affiliated with Plan International's Global Hub Ethical Review Board.

Her research employs methods like participatory group modeling and complexity science. Current projects include UNHCR-funded studies on refugee health integration and resilience, and the Rebuild for Resilience consortium. Past projects include evaluating cholera interventions in Nigeria, tuberculosis care financing in Georgia, and health system resilience for Palestine refugees displaced by the Syria crisis.

Her educational background includes a PhD, MSc, and BA, with training in epidemiology and health technology assessment. She teaches global health research methods and health technology assessment. Her work is supported by grants from Wellcome Trust, DFID, and Elrha’s R2HC Programme.