Jonathan Scourfield

What made you interested in Lund University and the School of Social Work?

I have always been impressed by the reputation of the Swedish welfare state, and it will be great to spend some time in the country and learn more about this, as well as the culture, the landscape, and, I hope, some of the language. 

Although I have had a 30-year academic career and led quite a few research grants, I haven’t had many international collaborations, and I would really value having more in future. Lund looks like a lovely city. Being close to Denmark means I can explore two countries that I’ve not been to before.

Can you briefly describe your current research? 

My research has been quite diverse, but it has included a few different aspects of social care inequalities, especially in child welfare. I am particularly interested in work with men across all issues and ages. One current study is a mixed-method, realist-informed evaluation of family group conferences.

What will be your main research focus during your time at Lund University?

I am interested in supporting Lund researchers in their own work, where I can, for example mentoring colleagues to apply for research funding and facilitating collaborations with UK academics where there is an appetite for this. I am coming to Lund with my wife Sally Holland who is also a Visiting Professor of Social Work. We hope that between us we can be of use to Lund colleagues in complementary ways.