Julia Kirch Kirkegaard

Presentation

My research concerns the configuration of R&D- and innovation networks within the field of renewable energies and climate change. In my previous research at CBS and DTU, I focused on the wind energy sector in China and Denmark. In particular, I studied the role of global innovation networks in China’s wind turbine industry, the case of Chinese industrial upgrading within the green energy sector, the societal acceptability of wind power (in Denmark and China), and contestations over expertise and science communication. In my research at Stanford, I am investigating the role of expertise and experts in the emergence of R&D and innovation networks, with special reference to the development of energy scenarios in the U.S. (California particularly), China, and Denmark. My approach is founded in the constructivist tradition of Science & Technology Studies (STS), in particular the Anthropology of Markets. Using this perspective, I seek to build bridges to the field of contemporary China Studies and more broadly to New Economic Sociology (for instance Economic Geography and innovation and network studies). Furthermore, I have a strong personal interest in engaging in inter-disciplinary research between social and natural sciences.  

Primary research areas

• Science & Technology Studies (Anthropology of Markets, Science Communication)
• Contemporary China Studies
• Renewable energy and sustainable transitions
• Societal acceptability of wind power
• Emerging and developing markets
• Global Innovation Networks

Courses

Supervision