Professor Degnen, from the School of Geography, Politics and Sociology, is an anthropologist whose work focuses on how people make sense of the world during social transformation and change. She has been recognised for her substantial contributions to social science for public benefit and the excellence and impact of her work.

In recent years, Professor Degnen’s work has explored identity and belonging in Brexit Britain and during the Covid 19 pandemic, as well as a number of projects on everyday experiences of older age and personhood. Her current research is investigating economic empowerment and gendered ageism with colleagues in rural Ghana.

Professor Degnen said: “It is such an honour to be recognised by the Academy and my peers for my contributions to scholarship in the social sciences.”

Professor Degnen is one of 64 new Fellows announced today by the Academy of Social Sciences, and joins 1,600 leading social scientists from academia, the public, private and third sectors. Fellows’ expertise covers the breadth of the social sciences, and their practice and research addresses some of the major challenges facing communities, society, places and economies.

Will Hutton FAcSS, President of the Academy, said, “I’m delighted to welcome these 64 outstanding social scientists to the Academy’s Fellowship, whose research and practice are helping to develop solutions to pressing societal issues. From informing decision-making around environmental challenges and encouraging entrepreneurial growth to improving planning systems and tackling educational inequalities, their insights, skills and understanding are delivering positive impact to improve our daily lives.”