Dr. James Patterson

Biography

James Patterson is an Associate Professor at Utrecht University, specializing in the intersection of sustainability, public policy, and comparative politics. His research focuses on policy, governance, and the complex public good problems associated with climate change at both national and subnational scales. Patterson's work examines the interaction between policy, institutions, and civil society in the processes of societal transformation, particularly in the context of ambitious policy action and institutional adaptation. He is the Principal Investigator of a significant European Research Council project titled 'Climate Backlash: Contentious Reactions to Policy Action,' which investigates the backlash against climate policy in advanced industrial democracies. His selected publications highlight critical insights into the conditions leading to policy contestation and the socio-political contexts that shape public responses to climate policy. Additionally, Patterson teaches both Master's and Bachelor's courses in Sustainable Development, emphasizing research design and sustainable land use.

Research Interests

Experience