Vigya Sharma

Background

About Vigya Sharma

My research has explored energy, resource extraction, climate change and development links in Australian and overseas contexts. I have several years of experience in applied research across domestic and international mining and energy sectors. Specifically, my interests are in understanding how the presence (or absence) of resources impacts development outcomes in host communities and regions. In my current role, I am leading the Centre’s work on fossil fuel transitions, particularly looking at the social, political and economic impacts of coal phase-out in several geographies, including India, China and Australia. I also coordinate and teach an introductory course on 'Humanitarian Engineering' to undergraduate engineering students. I first co-designed this course for UQ's Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology (EAIT) in 2020. Prior to (re)joining CSRM, I was based at the Energy and Poverty Research Group (EPRG), an interdisciplinary pan-UQ initiative established to support positive social, environmental and health outcomes vital for sustainable and productive livelihoods in energy-impoverished communities globally. I advise PhD students on wide-ranging topics including energy access, energy transitions, and mine closure. Initially trained as an engineer, I have a PhD in social sciences which has allowed me to foster a deep appreciation for interdisciplinary thinking and practice.