Associate Professor in International Development, specialising in political economy, social movements, and democratic education at the University of Westminster in London. I have taught and researched International Development for over 30 years. I am a National Teaching Fellow and have been recognised multiple times for excellence in teaching, receiving the “Outstanding Teacher” award from the Students’ Union in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2019, as well as the Westminster Learning and Teaching Award in 2022. These honours reflect my long-standing commitment to enhancing the student learning experience through innovative teaching practices, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and extensive knowledge-exchange initiatives with local and international partners.

My research explores the relationship between state power, economic transformation, and social movements, with a particular focus on Iran and the Middle East. My teaching and pedagogical work centre on democratic, student-led education, including the development of the Democratic Education Network (DEN), which connects research, teaching, and public engagement.

I have pioneered and directed several major staff–student initiatives, most notably the Democratic Education Network (DEN), a nationally and internationally recognised model of democratic, experiential, and globally engaged learning. Under my leadership, DEN has gained significant recognition, including runner-up for the Student Experience Award at the Guardian University Awards in 2019 and Highly Commended for Student Engagement at the Green Gown Awards in 2025. These achievements demonstrate the impact of my commitment to fostering inclusive education, empowering students, and promoting transformational learning.

What I Do

Research

Political economy, global development, and the Middle East, with a focus on Iran and state–society relations.

Teaching & Pedagogy

Student-centred, research-led education, including the development of innovative learning models.

Global Engagement

International collaboration through conferences, publications, and partnerships.

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