Alastair is a Professor of Social Research and Co-Director of the Psychosocial Research Unit. Before becoming an academic, he was youth and community worker and residential social worker. He is an interdisciplinary scholar with a particular interest in research methodology. He has worked on innovations in mobile, visual, narrative and participatory methods. He has undertaken applied research in the fields of substance use, mental health, youth homelessness as well as in participatory and collaborative arts.