Yates, Julian
Research
Diverse livelihoods and new institutional arrangements in the Peruvian Andes
The aim of my doctoral research is to advance understanding of the dynamic nature of livelihood institutions (understood as systems of rules pertaining to human and non-human actors) in the Peruvian Andes. Specifically, in what ways do institutions emerge and re-emerge to facilitate the adaptation of Andean socio-natural livelihoods to shifting structural and biophysical contexts (such as political economic change, changing governance mechanisms, and climate change)? My research will contribute to a more thorough empirical and theoretical understanding of whether a particular "Andean way" (Andinidad) plays a role in the co-constitution of diverse socio-natural livelihoods. The objective of my research is to explore these factors through examining: a) the dynamic human and more-than-human elements of livelihood institutions; b) the ways in which these institutions are shaped by experiments in participatory and community-based governance; and, c) the ways in which continuous institutional transformations affect livelihood options.
My priority is to shed light on the dynamic and diverse livelihoods that exist in the Andes, livelihoods that are continuously marginalized from mainstream decision-making and remain vulnerable to changes in both the biophysical and political-economic environment. The research will be participatory and action-oriented; the aim is to help enhance the capacity of Peruvian alpaquiros (alpaca famers) to absorb stresses and shocks to their livelihoods. The research will inform governance policy and practice.
A graduate degree offers not only freedom of research, but also the chance to tackle the most important issues that face contemporary society. The degree also provides the opportunity to gain valuable experience of conducting research in field locations, such as the Peruvian Andes. Such experience is an essential part of both personal and professional growth. The geography graduate department at UBC encourages and inspires students to gain such experience.
UBC's geography department is consistently ranked among the best in the world. My supervisor, Dr. Karen Bakker, is an expert on issues of water governance in Canada, the UK, and beyond. She was recently promoted to the Canada Chair position for Political Ecology, and was featured in the Globe and Mail's "top 40 under 40". Dr. Jamie Peck, who sits on my advisory committee, is the Canada Chair Professor of Urban and Economic Geography.
