Jordan Rydlewski is a social scientist at Forest Research, specialising in interdisciplinary research that integrates diverse knowledge systems to explore the social dimensions of environmental governance and resilience. Her work applies decolonial and social justice principles to support equitable and sustainable policy and practice.

Jordan leads and contributes to a variety of research initiatives, including projects on:

• Hedgerow resilience, provenance and biosecurity (Hawthorns, Hedgerow Resilience)
• The co-design of novel technologies and policy development for pest management (Alternative Control Methods for Oak Processionary Moth)
• Climate-smart forestry governance (FORWARDS – EU Horizon)
• The development of climate-health solutions through interdisciplinary collaboration (Centre for Net Positive Health Solutions to Climate Change).

She is also involved in initiatives such as ACCESS, which supports the integration of environmental social science into policy and practice, as well as projects like NewLEAF and Branching Out, which bridge arts, science, and environmental decision-making.

Before joining Forest Research in 2023, Jordan worked at the University of Bath’s Centre for Development Studies, supporting inclusive research and communications for international development initiatives. She has collaborated with non-profits to design, implement, and evaluate projects prioritising equity, inclusion, and sustainability.

Jordan holds an MSc in International Development, Social Justice and Sustainability (University of Bath) and a BA (Hons) in International Relations and Politics (University of Portsmouth). Her research interests focus on how inclusive, evidence-informed approaches and diverse knowledge systems can advance socio-environmental justice and support resilient forests.