Dr. Phurwa Dolpopa

Biography

Phurwa Dondrub Dolpopa is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography at the University of British Columbia, specializing in Indigenous political ecology. His research interweaves the strengths of political ecology and Indigenous studies, tackling complex questions of power, knowledge, and agency within specific socio-environmental contexts. Phurwa has investigated wildlife conservation, state formation, and environmental governance dynamics, focusing on the interrelation of Indigenous knowledge and infrastructure development in the Himalayas. His prominent research projects feature a detailed exploration of how Indigenous Peoples in Dolpo navigate the structural processes of Nepali state-building and conservation initiatives. Phurwa employs qualitative methodologies such as ethnographic, embodied, and collaborative approaches to produce insightful, mobilizing knowledge. Engaging with Indigenous communities has been central to his work, fostering meaningful collaborations on issues of mutual interest in the Himalayas and Salish Sea. He has published extensively and received grants from various prestigious organizations. Phurwa's commitment to impactful research is informed by his upbringing in Dolpo, Nepal, enhancing his dedication to bridging academia with Indigenous experiences and narratives.

Research Interests

Experience