Emma's research interests include design business models, brand manifestation, design thinking and methodology, and design briefing.

Emma previously led the marketing and research workstream for cross-disciplinary design consultancy Graven Images, working with clients including BBC, Hotel Missoni, Glasgow City Council, and Volkswagen. Her role encapsulated business, client and staff development, research, tool creation, client liaison and project bidding.

Her connections with creative industries, academia, corporate and public sectors position her effectively to connect people and opportunities, and her passion for the creative industries make her a real advocate of design and its role in creating value strategically, economically and culturally. Emma has worked with the British Design Initiative, Architecture and Design Scotland (A+DS) and the RIAS on research to benefit design education.

Emma's doctoral research focused on how designers build client business-awareness. Coupled with her experience in industry and education, Emma is passionate about helping new designers understand the strategic value of design, and succeed in business.

Emma is also a Visiting Lecturer at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, University of Dundee and Strathclyde University.