Julia Leventon

Julia Leventon is a PhD candidate interested in the interactions between science, society and governance. She is examining the implementation gaps in EU policy. The work draws on evidence from a case study of the management of groundwater with high levels of geogenic arsenic in Hungary. Her research activities have included in-depth interviews with representatives from all stakeholder groups within the governance network; interviews and questionnaires to inhabitants of four case-study towns; and tap water analysis. Her initial findings are being consolidated through a stakeholder workshop.

Julia’s position at CEU is supported by AquaTRAIN, a Marie Curie Research Training Network) under the 6^th Framework Programme of the EU. Her activities with AquaTRAIN have sent her on a 6-month placement to the EC Joint Research Centre in Ispra, Italy. She is due to spend a further 6 months at the Technical University of Crete in 2010. Julia has organised two general assemblies and a training workshop on behalf of the network. She is also the editor of the quarterly network newsletter.

Julia’s previous professional and academic experience ignited her interest interdisciplinary research. Julia completed a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science at Manchester University (UK). During this time, she enjoyed learning the physical science of environmental processes. Her professional experience in the non-profit sector in Peru, and in EIA consultancy in the UK taught her about the translation of this knowledge into management, and the difficulties encountered in the process. Julia was able to explore this science-society-governance interface further during her MSc in International Development at Manchester University. She is now enjoying using her theoretical and practical experience in her own multi-faceted research project