Samantha Sharpe

Dr. Samantha Sharpe is an Associate Professor and Research Director at the Institute for Sustainable Futures at the University of Technology Sydney. With over 15 years of research and policy experience, she specializes in just transitions planning and policy in the Asia-Pacific region at the intersection of sustainable development, climate change, and labor markets. She serves as Program Lead for Transformative Learning at ISF and is a lead author for the forthcoming IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities.

Her educational background includes:

• PhD from University of Western Sydney (2004-2008)
• Master of Public Policy from University of Sydney (2002-2003)
• Bachelor of Arts (Communications) from University of Western Sydney (1997-2000)

Dr. Sharpe's research focuses on sustainable development, climate change impacts, labor markets, and just transition frameworks. She has extensive experience translating research into policy outcomes, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Her work addresses the socio-economic dimensions of climate action, with emphasis on green jobs, migration, and sustainable industrial development. She has led numerous projects for international organizations including the ILO, UN ESCAP, UNDP, and ADB.

Her recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on sustainable fashion, just transitions, and climate policy. The articles reveal a consistent pattern of research at the intersection of environmental sustainability and social equity, with particular emphasis on the textile and garment sector in Asia. Her work increasingly addresses the connections between wellbeing economics, degrowth thinking, and sustainable fashion systems.

Her scientific achievements have been recognized with:

• 2023 Vice Chancellors' research excellence award in research collaboration for ILO project on textile and garment sector
• 2022 UTS Vice-Chancellor's Award for Research Excellence

Dr. Sharpe has secured numerous research grants from organizations including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Industry, Science and Resources, Asian Development Bank, AgriFutures Australia, and the International Labour Organization. Her current projects include 'Building Climate-Adaptive Solutions through Inclusive Market Networks' and serving as lead author for the IPCC Special Report on Climate Change and Cities.

As Program Lead for Transformative Learning at ISF, she develops and delivers capacity building activities that translate research into practical applications for policy makers and industry stakeholders across the Asia-Pacific region.