Claire Harkins

Area of research expertise – Outline

I am a Political Sociologist my research focuses on the politics and policy of public health with a particular focus on the non-elected operating within policy circles in relation to public health.   Research interests and activity broadly relate to developing approaches to and understanding corporate power in relation to public health and to understanding the relationship between evidence and policy. 

Current research activities.

Current work includes exploration and analysis of the organisational shape and activity of industrial actors in scientific, policy and public debates.  Research interests and activity broadly relate to developing approaches to and understanding corporate power in relation to public health.

Desired research direction.

The goal of my research is to make a contribution to policy debates on improving public health in relation to consumption.  I aim to expand on my previous research by developing an understanding of global corporations and the role they place in debates regarding consumption and health, particularly NCDs.  I am particularly keen to explore how my existing work on the alcohol can be used as a framework for understanding contemporary food politics.    

Target Collaborative Companies (National, International, up to 3).

1. Scottish Government

2. Local Authorities

3. Third Sector Organisations

Target Collaborative Organisations (National, International, up to 3)

1. World Health Orgnaisation

2. Global Alcohol Policy Alliance  

3. Global Obesity Prevention Centre, John Hopkins, Bloomberg School of Public Health