Sasha Quahe’s research explores how transformative change happens from a process-relational perspective, with a focus on the different roles that crisis and crisis preparedness can play.

Sasha Quahe’s research explores different philosophical groundings for studying how change happens in social-ecological systems. Her work explores the theoretical potential of process-relational philosophies to better understand complex processes of transformative change for sustainability. She is particularly interested in how crisis and crisis preparedness can play out in different ways that can trigger, advance or inhibit positive transformations. For instance, how can relational principles and values inform complexity-aware theories of change for local organizations? Additionally, how can we move beyond studying crises as either ‘objectively’ existing (separate from interpretation) or as only socially constructed narratives, but a third way: crises as enacted through material-discursive practices in which matter and meaning are intertwined? And in light of this, what should we do to support positive change? Her research also aims to support real-world change for sustainability by working closely with practitioners to co-produce knowledge.

Quahe’s PhD research is part of the TransMod Project, which aims to build models of, with and for sustainability transformations, funded by the European Research Council (ERC).

In sustainability research, Quahe has worked with translating Planetary Boundaries science to a business context, with a focus on improving monitoring of primary sectors’ environmental impacts. She has worked on a project using the Nature Futures Framework for plural nature values, highlighting the need for more relational values. She has worked with researchers to advance a critical perspective on representations of seaweed as a climate ‘solution’, arguing against technological ‘quick fixes’ that do not address root causes of unsustainability.

Quahe studied Political Science, International Relations and Economics at the University of Western Australia, focusing on EU climate and energy policy. Through her Master’s degree at the Stockholm Resilience Centre, she shifting into inter- and transdisciplinary sustainability science. Her Master thesis used Q method to critically analyse framings of ‘science-based targets’.

Before research, Quahe worked at a local law firm in Perth. In a communications role, she helped develop and implement legal education workshops for municipalities across Western Australia, thus supporting good governance in rural, regional and urban areas.