Dr. Sean Irwin's research focuses on sustainable social and economic development in the global South. His particular interest is in transdisciplinary research and innovations that address systemic development challenges. His primary methodological interest is systems analysis using mixed methods. His research has focused on food security, gender equality, women's empowerment, the effects of international trade and globalization on small-scale farmers, global health, WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene), and the impacts of climate change. His geographic focus is Africa and Latin America.
Dr. Irwin is currently principal investigator on a Fund for Innovation and Transformation (FIT) funded project on WASH in health care facilities in Malawi and co-principal investigator on a Global Affairs Canada funded project Fish for Life in Bolivia.
Experience
Dr. Irwin has experience working in the private, public and non-profit sectors. He has spearheaded information and communication technology projects with First Nations, Métis and francophone communities across Western Canada, worked for the government of Manitoba as a disaster management specialist, and worked for international NGOs such as Habitat for Humanity and the Canadian Red Cross. Irwin has also been an instructor at Simon Fraser University, Camosun College and the University of Victoria.
Education
2018
PhD in Geography
University of Victoria
2012
Master's of Rural Development
Brandon University
2011
Master's of International Trade
University of Saskatchewan
2005
Bachelor of Arts
University of Manitoba
