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Danny Burns
Professor at the Institute of Development Studies
Danny Burns is a prominent academic and activist focused on participatory research and social change. He currently serves as a Professor at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS) at the University of Sussex in the UK.12
Key Roles and Responsibilities
Danny Burns is the Programme Director of CLARISSA (Child Labour Action Research Innovations in Southern and South Eastern Asia), a major initiative funded by the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).2 This program, which runs from September 2018 to September 2024, aims to combat child labor through innovative, participatory research methods in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Myanmar.2
Academic Background and Expertise
Professor Burns has an extensive academic background:
- He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Geography from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).2
- His research interests include participatory methods, systemic action research, community development, complexity and systems thinking in development, and systemic conflict transformation.1
- He has previously held positions as Professor of Social and Organisational Learning at the University of the West of England (2002-2010) and as a Lecturer and Senior Lecturer at the University of Bristol (1996-2001).2
Research and Publications
Danny Burns is widely published in his field:
- He has authored several key texts, including "Systemic Action Research" (2007) and "Navigating Complexity in International Development" (2015).1
- His work has been cited over 4,000 times according to Google Scholar.3
- He has directed or co-directed more than twenty participatory research projects over the past eight years.1
Professional Experience
Throughout his career, Professor Burns has held various leadership positions:
- He led the Participation, Inclusion and Social Change Cluster at IDS from 2010 to 2019.1
- He has been involved in projects focusing on contemporary slavery, bonded labor, peace-building, and community development in various countries.1
- Prior to his academic career, he served as the Director of the Tenant Participation Advisory Service for Scotland and the Director of the Decentralisation Research and Information Centre.1
Danny Burns is known for his activist approach to social change and his focus on participatory processes that empower marginalized communities.24 His work at IDS and with CLARISSA demonstrates his commitment to addressing complex social issues through innovative research methods and community engagement.
