Dr Tim McLellan

I am an anthropologist and science and technology studies (STS) scholar whose research examines the aspirations of and potentials for environmental experts to bring about more democrat and more livable futures. I place particular emphasis on the role of bureaucracy, institutions, and audit cultures in shaping scientific imaginaries. 

In my previous ethnographic fieldwork, I pursued these interests alongside mycologists, agroforestry scientists, and impact scientists in southwest China. Focused on similar overarching themes, I have recently begun new ethnographic research with landscape architects in Thailand who are drawing inspiration from nature to design inclusive and climate-smart cityscapes. Within and beyond this project, I hope to explore opportunities to take on the practical, institutional, and conceptual challenges of collaborating across environmental humanities and environmental sciences.

I also have a second ongoing research project focused on Nous Group's UniForum data and the impact of external consultancies on universities.  

My book – Science Interrupted: Rethinking Research Practice with Bureaucracy, Agroforestry, and Ethnography – was published by Cornell University Press in 2024. You can read about it in this Made in China Conversation.