Scott Kalafatis , Ph.D.

Deputy University Director Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center

Scott leverages social science theory and methods to support collaborations that translate knowledge into action, build capacity, and cultivate resilience throughout the region.

Areas of Expertise

CLIMATE ADAPTATION CO-PRODUCTION PROCESSES DECISION-MAKING EVALUATION

Bio

Dr. Scott Kalafatis is the deputy university director of the Northwest Climate Adaptation Science Center. Scott is a social scientist with a research background focused on understanding collaborations between scientists and policymakers and how these engagements contribute to decisions informed by climate science.

Scott joins the NW CASC most recently from Chatham University, where he has been an assistant professor of sustainability. Prior to his time at Chatham, Scott had over ten years of experience working as a social scientist, including positions at the Great Lakes Integrated Sciences and Assessments (GLISA), as a National Science Foundation ethical STEM postdoctoral researcher with the College of Menominee Nation, and as an assistant professor of sustainability at Dickinson College.

Scott received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia and a Master of Urban and Regional Planning, Master of Science in environmental policy and Doctorate in resource policy and behavior from the University of Michigan. When he’s not in the office or crammed in a box on Zoom, Scott can be found exploring the coastline or forests or searching for new, delicious foods to try.

Research Interests

  • Role of science and collaborations with scientists in climate adaptation decisions.  
  • Evaluation of climate adaptation capacities, collaborations, and outcomes.
  • Development of training that supports constructive engagement between science and practice.