Ruby-Anne Birin

Ruby-Anne Birin is a Programme Manager at the SDG Impact Lab, where she develops sustainability research initiatives that bring multidisciplinary perspectives to contemporary global challenges. She also leads the Oxford Laidlaw Scholars Programme, supporting undergraduates to use research, leadership, and community engagement as a bridge between the University and the wider Oxford community.

Ruby-Anne first joined the Lab as a 2022 Fellow, where her team’s research in Tenerife helped catalyse a collaboration between easyJet holidays and Winnow AI, resulting in a 68 percent reduction in food waste at a partner hotel. She later returned to the Lab as an Impact Officer, contributing to impact measurement and helping communicate the Lab’s growing portfolio of research and partnerships.

Originally from South Africa, Ruby-Anne came to Oxford to pursue a DPhil in Archaeological Science, which she has now successfully completed. Her research challenges long-standing historical narratives by refining approaches to dating ancient African settlements, and she has contributed to both academic journals and public-facing platforms such as The Conversation. She brings experience across research, mentoring, and community-led projects, shaping programmes that support students and partners alike.