We're delighted to welcome Sophie Long as our new head of programmes.
Sophie brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked in various capacities as a grant-maker, teacher, campaigner, writer, academic, and board member. With a decade of dedicated grant-making experience, Sophie is well-positioned to lead our programmes.
Sophie has worked for JRCT for seven years, contributing significantly to the Northern Ireland and Sustainable Future programmes. Prior to joining JRCT, she worked on a UK-wide AHRC-funded project, connecting researchers and communities across the country.
Sophie holds a PhD in politics from Queen's University Belfast. During her doctoral studies, she taught courses on populism, democracy, European politics, and research methods. She also collaborated with the Green Party of Northern Ireland on research and policy.
Sophie continues to engage in research and writing, most recently contributing to the Routledge Handbook on the Northern Ireland Conflict and Peace. She is a trustee at the Community Foundation of Northern Ireland, where she serves on the grants and impact committee.
Sophie is a member of the Chartered Management Institute and holds leadership and management qualifications from the University of York.
Sophie began her role in November 2024.
Sophie Long