Dr Seth Robinson - Researcher, Lancaster Environment Centre

Posted on by Chris Atkinson

Headshot photo of Seth Robinson

Can you outline your research interests?

I’m an environmental researcher interested in ecological responses to human pressure. Over the last year, I’ve focused more specifically on the relationship between solar energy generation and agricultural land use. This research sits within a social and cultural context considering for example, perceptions of solar energy against the scientific facts.

I was part of the team on Lancaster's Reimagining Research Practices project, leading work on its sustainability strand. Through interviews and workshops, I explored what prevents researchers from engaging with sustainability and identified ways to make research practices more sustainable.


What benefits did the scheme provide?

The Bridging Scheme gave me time to develop a publication based on my research into the relationship between solar energy generation and agricultural land use. This is a very topical issue that is being debated in parliament and which the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is exploring. I have been seconded to DESNZ, and this continued as a non-funded position.

Working in this area has helped me understand the translation of research findings into policy at local, regional and national levels.

What contributions were you able to make to research culture during the Bridging Scheme?

During the bridging period I helping to improve understanding and communication between academia, industry and policy communities, both locally and nationally. This has optimised the opportunity for my research to show real-world impact by informing policy in this area.

By extending my working relationship with DESNZ and building up new relationships through attending the Solar and Storage Conference for example, I have both built up my networks alongside helping to position Lancaster as a key player in this area.

I have taken part in workshops to disseminate my research, including one for the University and another in Ghana to provide an international perspective.

And into the future?

The Bridging Scheme has put me in a stronger position to pursue opportunities at the intersection of environmental science and policy. The publication I developed during the scheme could contribute to wider discussions about renewable energy and land use, while the relationships I’ve built through DESNZ and other organisations provide a strong basis for future collaboration.

I’m keeping my options open at this point, and whilst I would like to remain at Lancaster, I am exploring a range of possibilites. I’m particularly interested in roles where I can help translate scientific evidence into policy and my recent experience puts me in a good position for such opportunities.

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