Kirk Jalbert

Kirk Jalbert is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies in the Department of Environment and Sustainability at the University at Buffalo (SUNY). His work focuses on environmental justice, energy policy, and participatory action research. Jalbert earned his PhD in Science and Technology Studies from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2015), an MFA from Tufts University (2005), and a BS from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (1998).

• Education: PhD (2015), MFA (2005), BS (1998)
• Affiliations: College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Environment and Sustainability
• Roles: Faculty Member, Graduate Program Director

Research priorities include civic technoscience, oil and gas pipeline advocacy, and data justice in resource extraction contexts. His work bridges grassroots activism with institutional policy, emphasizing participatory methods and community empowerment. Recent projects examine landowner decision-making in petrochemical pipeline negotiations and civic infrastructures for environmental advocacy.

Publications span over a decade, addressing energy governance, environmental monitoring networks, and the socio-political impacts of shale gas development. Notable collaborations include work with the FracTracker Alliance and the Shale Network.

Advising and grants focus on action-oriented research in environmental policy, with engagement in Arizona’s helium extraction boom and Northeast fisheries co-management initiatives. Active in interdisciplinary teams addressing the intersection of technology, equity, and environmental futures.