Dr Rushton’s research interests are in geography and science education, specifically the professional development of teachers, student participation in research, and climate change and sustainability education. She is currently Programme Lead for the Education MA, a large and thriving programme that includes staff across four IOE departments as well as Research Lead for the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Education.
Dr Rushton has designed, led and co-ordinated various national and international research projects, securing highly competitive funding and publishing world-leading research in the broad areas of climate change and sustainability education, teacher education and human-environment interactions over time.
Prior to joining IOE, Dr Rushton qualified as a secondary school geography teacher and taught in schools in Kent, and subsequently held research and academic posts at the Institute for Research in Schools and King’s College London, including as Subject Director of its inaugural secondary geography PGCE programme. In 2020, with Dr Cyrus Nayeri, she co-founded Routes - The Journal for Student Geographers, and continues as Managing Editor. She is actively connected with geographical professional bodies, including the Geographical Association and International Geographical Union, and as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.
Dr Rushton said: “I am delighted to be appointed as Head of CPA and am very much looking forward to working with staff and students alike. Working with colleagues across teaching and research has allowed me to experience the rich and varied expertise of the Department and I’m excited to contribute in this leadership role.”
Professor Li Wei, IOE Director and Dean said: “I am delighted to welcome Lizzie to the Senior Management Team as Head of CPA. Lizzie has a strong background in education, including ITE, and research, most recently serving as Programme Lead for the Education MA and Research Lead for the Centre for Climate Change and Sustainability Education. I very much look forward to working with Lizzie in her new role.”
Dr Rushton takes over from Professor Nicola Walshe, who has recently assumed the role of Pro-Director Education.