Nikolaos Pappas

Nikolaos Pappas is Professor of Tourism Development and Crisis Management at the University of Sunderland, where he serves as Director of CERTE (Centre for Research in Tourism Excellence) and Co-Director of ATHENA (Association of Tourism, Hospitality and Events Networks in Academia). He holds a PhD in Tourism Planning and Development and a post-doctorate in Risk and Crisis Management.

His research focuses on risk management, tourism planning, destination marketing, and sustainability issues in tourism. Professor Pappas has led multiple funded projects including a UKRI-funded study on COVID-19 impacts on Sri Lankan tourism (£20,000).

His recent publications explore technology-enabled tourism transformation, virtual gaming environments, and crisis impacts on hospitality. Research demonstrates strong emphasis on technological innovation and resilience during uncertainty.