Kathleen Rutledge

Dr. Kathleen Rutledge is a Lecturer in Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and Project Design & Management at Queen Margaret University's Institute for Global Health and Development (IGHD). She specializes in multi-sectoral program design, humanitarian leadership, and evaluating aid effectiveness. With nearly two decades of experience, she has managed over 400 personnel in high-risk regions like the Middle East, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia, securing £18 million in grants for development and research.

Her research focuses on faith-sensitive approaches to MHPSS, disaster resilience, and marginalized groups' rights in aid programs. Notable field roles include leading emergency responses to the Syrian conflict, South Sudan famine, and post-tsunami Sri Lanka relief. She is a Humanitarian Academy for Development (HAD) Research Fellow and contributes to the International Partnership on Religion and Sustainable Development (PaRD).

Teaching includes modules on Project Design and Management, Programme Evaluation in Global Health, and psychosocial interventions for displaced populations. Her work emphasizes cultural sensitivity, local capacity engagement, and equitable aid practices.