Niamh Stephenson

Niamh Stephenson is an Associate Professor in Social Science at the University of New South Wales' School of Public Health and Community Medicine. Her research examines the relationships between public health and social and political change, with particular focus on HIV/AIDS, global health responses, and health inequalities.

Her research interests span social determinants of health, psychosocial issues, and qualitative research methods. She approaches public health through a sociological lens, investigating how social structures and political contexts shape health experiences and outcomes. Her work often examines how individual experiences can both reflect and challenge dominant health paradigms.

Dr. Stephenson has published extensively across sociology of health & medicine, social research, cultural studies and qualitative research methods. Her publications include 54 journal articles, 4 books, 6 book chapters, and 2 edited books, demonstrating significant scholarly contribution to her fields.

• Editorial Board: Culture, Health & Sexuality
• Editorial Board: Theory & Psychology
• Editorial Board: Subjectivity
• ARC Discovery Project funding for pandemic influenza research (2011-2013)

Dr. Stephenson currently supervises three PhD students and has received Australian Research Council funding for projects examining pandemic responses and the intersection of ultrasound technology with abortion ethics. Her research combines theoretical innovation with practical public health applications, particularly investigating the political dimensions of health crises.