I am a critical human geographer researching primarily on home and work in global South cities. I am committed to collaborating with local scholars to co-produce knowledge on geographical issues of social relevance, which have the potential to make a positive impact. Specific themes include: self-help housing, home-based enterprises, youth mobility and entrepreneurship, aging in the city, peri-urbanisation, urban governance, peacebuilding, and the impact of extreme weather events.

Since the mid-1980s, I have conducted research in numerous countries in Africa, Latin America and the Asia-Pacific region, though with a particular focus on Ghana and Colombia. My research projects bring together multidisciplinary teams in collaborative research that engages with multiple stakeholders, resulting in strong ties with communities, policy makers and practitioners. 

Currently a key focus of my research is the impact of extreme heat on homes and workplaces in cities. Building on two British Academy funded projects that I led – VEWEC and REFIT – I am part of the Loughborough University Clear Climate team, who are investigating affordable ways to reduce indoor temperatures in urban Ghana. I am also a key member of the explorative network Extreme Urbanism (ExUrb).

Recently completed projects also include:

• Creative industries in Ghana: ACIG
• Coastal fishing communities in Ghana: HOTSPOT2
• Peacebuilding in Colombia:Trocha de Paz

I am an Associate Editor of Geoforum, serve on the Editorial Boards of International Development Planning Review and EchoGeo, and an Advisory Board Member of the Ghana Journal of Geography. I am also Chair of the Advisory Board for the Institute of Urban Research, Malmö University.