Lee Edwards

Lee Edwards is a Professor of Strategic Communications and Public Engagement at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), within the Department of Media and Communications. Her academic career spans roles including Associate Professor at LSE (2017-2021) and the University of Leeds (2011-2017). She holds a PhD from Leeds Metropolitan University (2007), an MSc from the University of Auckland (1995), and a BSc from the University of Surrey (1991).

Her research focuses on critical public relations, promotional culture, deliberation processes, and copyright policy. She has authored influential books including *Understanding Public Relations: Theory, Culture, and Society* (2018) and *Power, Diversity, and Public Relations* (2014).

Professor Edwards has received awards such as the ICA Environmental Communication Division Top Faculty Paper Award (2020) and the LSE Excellence in Education Award (2018-19). She has contributed to over 100 scholarly articles, book chapters, and research reports, including studies on media literacy, misinformation, and policy design.

Her professional service includes roles as Secretary of the ICA PR Division (2014-2016), editorship of *PR Inquiry* (2014-2018), and external examiner for multiple universities. She has led grants totaling over £500k, including AHRC-funded projects on deliberation and copyright.

Edwards is a vocal advocate for diversity in PR and media industries, founding the Ignite Networking Group (2010-2013). She has advised organizations like the PRCA and participated in leadership programs such as the Aurora Leadership Initiative (2018-2019).