Three York academics elected Fellows of The Academy of Social Sciences

Posted on Monday 8 September 2025

In recognition of their impact and contributions, Fellowships has been awarded to Professor Kiran Trehan (Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Enterprise, Partnerships and Engagement), Teresa da Silva Lopes (Professor of International Business and Business History) and Yvonne Birks (Professor of Applied Social Care Research).

Selection of the Fellows is through an independent peer review which recognises their excellence and impact. The elected Fellows reflect a variety of backgrounds, disciplines and professions and have made significant contributions beyond the academy, including to industry, policy and higher education. 

Leading scientists 

Professors Trehan, da Silva Lopes and Birks will be joining a cohort of leading scientists whose research helps to understand and address some of the major challenges facing communities, society, places and economies. 

As Director of the Centre for Evolution of Global Business and Institutions (CEGBI), Professor da Silva Lopes is recognised for her ground breaking research in how both the past and the present can help to inform businesses and policymakers on how institutions can succeed in a global economy. 

Professor Kiran Trehan’s research combines intellectual depth, innovation, and leadership to build vital bridges between academia, business, and government, fostering knowledge exchange, enterprise support and meaningful social impact on both national and international scales. As Director of the Centre for Women’s Enterprise, Leadership, Economy and Diversity and the founder of Enterprise Works, Professor Trehan has been widely recognised for her pioneering leadership in enterprise and business support research. Her work champions inclusive economic growth by driving forward innovative research, impactful engagement and initiatives that empower communities, influence policy, and transform the enterprise landscape.

Professor Yvonne Birks is the National Director for the NIHR School for Social Care Research and a leading figure in Social Care research. Her focus is on older adult care and the Fellowship award is a recognition of her commitment to and achievements in inclusive, practice-informed research as well as her contributions to national social care policy.  

Substantial contributions

President of the Academy, Will Hutton FAcSS, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome these leading social scientists to the Academy’s Fellowship. Their research and practical applications have made substantial contributions to social science and wider society in a range of areas from international trade policy and inclusive planning systems through to innovative entrepreneurship and governing digital technologies. 

“We look forward to working with them to promote further the vital role the social sciences play in all areas of our lives.”