Irene Ruiz Espejo
Irene Ruiz Espejo is an interdisciplinary researcher working on fisheries governance, sustainability, and social justice. She is currently a PhD Researcher at the University of Southampton, focusing on industrial–small-scale fisheries conflict in Senegal, and its relationship with migration patterns towards Spain. Supported by the UKRI Centre for Doctoral Training in AI for Sustainability, her work uses agent-based modelling, spatial analysis, and decolonial methodologies to generate policy relevant insights into complex socio-ecological systems.
Irene has professional experience across marine science, fisheries governance, and ESG-focused financial analysis, contributing to work on impacts of ocean acidification, emissions reduction strategies, and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Through the Policy Associates Scheme, she aims to strengthen the translation of critical, evidence-based research into equitable public policy, while deepening her understanding of policy-making processes and stakeholder engagement in support of just and sustainable outcomes.