Event Details

Destined for a poor life? How climate, poverty and policy shape childhood and beyond in low-income countries: Professor Catherine Porter shares her journey to becoming Professor in Development Economics at Lancaster University.

Lancaster University Management School is excited to invite you to our Inaugural Lecture Series, a special set of public lectures that celebrates the careers of our newest Professors. Each lecture will feature a brief presentation by one of our Professors, offering an overview of their research and a glimpse into their personal academic journey.The lectures will be held online throughout the academic year, allowing us to make them accessible to a broad audience, including staff, students, and the wider public. Each session will last approximately 60 minutes, including time for both the presentation and a Q&A session.

Catherine Porter shares her journey to becoming Professor in Development Economics at Lancaster University, after working for two American investment banks, two central banks, the UK civil service and finally entering academia after a chance encounter. Her research investigates the causes and consequences of poverty in childhood, as well as the long-lasting effects of adverse events such as climate shocks on families trying to make their living in often precarious environments. She also considers what policies have worked to reduce vulnerability and support children to achieve an education and has advised major donors and governments such as DFID/FCDO, the World Bank, UNDP, UNICEF, Save the Children and Governments of Ethiopia, Peru and Uganda. She also has a strong interest in finding ways to increase the number of women studying and working in economics.

The lectures, taking place throughout the academic year, will be delivered online to ensure accessibility for staff, students, and the wider public. Each session will last approximately 60 minutes, including time for both the presentation and a Q&A session.

An inaugural lecture is a distinguished academic event, marking the promotion of a colleague to professorship—a significant milestone in their career. These events provide a unique opportunity for our newly appointed Professors to share their pioneering research, highlight their achievements in research, innovation, engagement, and teaching, and showcase the societal impact of their work.

The series is free of charge and open to everyone. Whether you are an expert in the field or simply curious, we warmly welcome all staff, students, their guests, and members of the local community to join us in celebrating these academic milestones.

Please note you will be sent a TEAMS link to join the lecture following registration.