Kerry McInnes

Kerry McInnes is a Research Fellow at UHI Moray, part of the University of the Highlands and Islands, where she contributes to the Just Transition initiative focused on Net Zero transition in the Moray region. She holds a PhD in biomedical sciences from the University of Edinburgh and is actively involved in research, project leadership, and community engagement.

• University: University of the Highlands and Islands
• Campus: UHI Moray
• Role: Doctor Research Fellow - Just Transition
• Email: kerry.mcinnes.moray@uhi.ac.uk
• ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6637-5791
• Accepting PhD Students: Yes

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), University of Edinburgh, 2003

Research Interests:

Kerry McInnes's research spans two major phases: early work in endocrinology and metabolism, and current work in sustainability and energy transition. Her expertise includes steroid hormone metabolism, adipose tissue biology, and reproductive endocrinology. She has transitioned into applied sustainability research, focusing on the implications of Net Zero policies on employment, skills development, and infrastructure. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates scientific research with stakeholder engagement, education, and policy development.

Research Trends:

Her recent publications show a shift from laboratory-based biomedical research to applied environmental and social research. While her early work (2004–2014) centered on molecular mechanisms in endocrinology, her recent activity (2022 onward) reflects engagement with renewable energy, climate action, and community-based sustainability projects. This evolution demonstrates a broadening of impact from cellular mechanisms to regional socio-economic transformation.

Scientific Recognition:

• h-index: 17 (Scopus)
• 1025 Citations (Scopus)
• ORCID registered
• Work highlighted in news outlets, blogs, and social media

Supervision and Funding:

She is currently Principal Investigator (PI) on multiple active research and outreach projects, including the Scottish Offshore Wind Skills Portal, Futures in Wind, and the Speyside Living Lab. She has led projects on climate conversation, green infrastructure, and skills development for Net Zero transition. Her role as PI indicates leadership in grant acquisition and project management. She is accepting PhD students, suggesting active mentorship and supervision.

Labs and Networks:

She is a member of the Moray Climate Action Network and the Moray Hydrogen Steering Group, indicating active participation in regional sustainability networks. Her work is collaborative, involving partnerships across institutions and sectors to support just transition strategies.