Dr. Rajib Biswal
Research Interests
As an interdisciplinary and qualitative researcher, I bring a diverse set of research skills and experiences pertinent to environmental social science. My work has involved collaborating with rural communities and various government and non-governmental organizations. Much of my professional career has been dedicated to exploring human-environment interrelationships. I employ qualitative research methods to engage with rural communities and study their needs, priorities, and experiences, particularly concerning justice, governance, environmental stewardship, and sustainability.
My background
I offer a unique combination of academic and practical experience, underpinned by applied research in [community-based] natural resource management across diverse regions, including Canada, India, Kenya, and Belize. My work spans diverse projects, including park and protected area management in Canada, sustainable tourism in Grenada, Maya agroecology in Belize, and hydropower issues in Manitoba's Indigenous communities. This experience, particularly around people's relationship with their environment, has shaped my approach to engaging with diverse communities—women, Indigenous groups, and rural populations.
During my postdoctoral work at Memorial University’s Environmental Policy Institute, I collaborated with Dr. Garret Richards to assess the environmental and energy needs of communities in Western Newfoundland. I engaged with local communities, including Indigenous rightsholders and town councils, organized workshops to develop a research needs inventory, and fostered meaningful relationships to support potential collaborations.
My experience in the non-profit sector, including with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in India, spans projects such as microenterprise development in Gujarat and researching governance challenges in coastal Odisha. Working closely with government agencies, local administrations, community leaders, and marginalized groups has profoundly shaped my worldview. My background in natural resource management also enriches my teaching, allowing me to bring real-world case studies on environmental governance and policy to the classroom.
Focus group discussion, St George's, Newfoundland
