School of Built Environment & Development Studies

Professor Cathy Sutherland is an Associate Professor in the discipline of development studies and works at the interface between social and environmental systems with a focus on sustainable development. Her research interests are in the relationship between society, space and environment and how this shapes environmental politics and policy making. She has worked on topics such as the impact of mega-projects on social environments in Durban, social assessment theory and methodology, sustainability indicators, risk and vulnerability, and urban/social policy. She brings to AL position a wealth of experience having served on the Faculty of Humanities Higher Degrees Committee for five years from 2009 to 2014, until the Faculties were restructured. She has coordinated the Masters in Development Studies programme for seven years, mentoring, counseling, and supporting students. She also served briefly as the Academic Leader: Research and Higher Degrees in 2015 and is familiar with university processes having been a staff member for years.