Dr Sarina Kilham is a rural sociologist specialising in transdisciplinary research, focusing on the intersection of sustainable rural livelihoods, autonomy of peasants and the ways in which people adapt, integrate or resist government led development programs.

Dr Kilham’s academic and industry research experience has spanned sustainable access to energy and water, sustainable agricultural production, biofuels for rural development, NGO collaboration and partnerships and disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction. Dr Kilham has primarily conducted research in Timor-Leste, Indonesia and Brazil.

Prior to returning to academia, Dr Kilham worked extensively with the United Nations, Non-Government Organisations and public institutions on international development programs for more than a decade, primarily in Timor-Leste. Dr Kilham worked for the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in Timor-Leste as a policy and programs Advisor, and collaborative with National University of Timor Lorosa’e Faculty of Agriculture on her PhD Research.