Lucy Downes

Lucy Downes serves as a Lecturer in Human Resource Management at the Faculty of Business and Law, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol), having joined the institution in 2020 initially as an Assistant Support Lecturer. She is dedicated to fostering student confidence through supportive teaching environments and maintains regular office hours (Mondays 1-2 PM, Fridays 11 AM-12 PM).

Education:

• BA (Hons) Business and Human Resource Management
• Currently completing MSc in Human Resource Management
• Post Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice (in progress)

Research Focus: Driven by equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) imperatives, her work examines social factors shaping professional identities—particularly in male-dominated fields like aerospace engineering—and develops practical frameworks for neurodiverse talent retention. Current projects bridge HR theory with engineering sector challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Scientific Recognition:

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

Grants & Professional Impact: Secured Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF) support for neurodiversity recruitment frameworks in engineering organizations. Previously contributed to pandemic-era research on international student experiences and developed Home Office-compliant HR policies for corporate clients during her consultancy career.