Nicola Watson

Research Interests

Dr. Nicola Watson is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Behavioural and Social Science at Teagasc, focusing on behaviour change and decision-making of farmers on adoption of climate mitigation measures. She holds a PhD in Geography and Environmental Studies, regarding behavioural science of pro-environmental behaviour in the motherhood population. Before training for her PhD, Nicola was the chairperson of a Northern Ireland-wide pro-environmental charity, and in a previous career she was a Drama teacher in Northern Ireland and England. Her research interests include pro-environmental behaviour and decision-making, with particular interest in inter-group dynamics and farmers’ identity.

Current Projects

EMIT-CHANGE: Explaining Climate Change Mitigation Uptake Behaviour Change Dynamics: Farmers’ Attitudes, Motivations, and Barriers. Within the project Nicola is responsible for the nationally representative survey on farmers’ decision-making regarding climate mitigation behaviours.

Education

• 2020 – 2025    PhD Geography and Environmental Studies, University of Ulster, Northern Ireland.
• 2003 – 2004     PGCE in Drama, Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, London UK.
• 1999 – 2002    BA(Hons) Dance and Theatre.

Professional Membership

General Teaching Council Northern Ireland

• Publications