Emma is a qualitative researcher with an interest in substance use, recovery, visual research, and participatory action research methods. She began her academic career by completing her undergraduate degree in Anthropology at the University of Georgia. She then relocated to Central America for a year to travel and teach English as a foreign language in Nicaragua. After this, Emma moved to Scotland where she completed a Public Health MPH at the University of Dundee. Her master’s thesis was a prospective cohort study quantifying the associated risks for drug death in Tayside, Scotland.

Emma is currently in the process of finishing her PhD at the University of Worcester where her research has focused on investigating the experiences of individuals in recovery from substance use using digital photography. She has also spent time as an early engagement and intervention volunteer with the Bristol Drugs project, working within their needle and syringe provision service, building therapeutic relationships with clients, and assisting with club and festival outreach efforts.