Short biography

I am a social scientist with an academic background in policy studies, international relations, and public health. My work focuses on interpretative qualitative and participatory research methods in policy-related contexts, exploring how social and public policies are shaped, implemented, and experienced at both community and institutional levels.

With over ten years of experience as a lecturer and trainer in higher education, I have taught extensively in foreign aid policies, qualitative and interpretative methods, research ethics, and policy-oriented participatory action research. My teaching philosophy is grounded in experiential and reflective learning, aiming to equip students with both theoretical understanding and practical research skills.

I am an expert in qualitative data analysis, interpretative approaches, and mixed-methods research. My work applies rigorous and reflective qualitative and interpretive methods, emphasizing their strength in understanding complex social and policy issues. I am also a strong advocate of participatory approaches, public involvement in research, and action research—while maintaining a reflective awareness of their limitations and pitfalls. In addition, I integrate mixed methods such as quantitative surveys and Delphi studies in combination with interviews.

Beyond academia, I have collaborated with civil society and international organizations on community-based, social policy, and humanitarian projects, bringing real-world perspectives into my teaching and research. I also have substantial experience in grant writing and the management of EU-funded research and policy initiatives.

My current work centers on the use of qualitative and participatory approaches to examine policy processes, governance, and social inclusion within interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary and international contexts.

Since September 2026 I have joined the Depatment of Policitical Science, University of Vienna, as a Senior Lecturer.