Hello! I’m Jen Park-Burrows, an interdisciplinary researcher, communicator, and creative systems thinker working at the intersection of environmental and multispecies ethics, governance, and technology. I use research to generate actionable insights and reimagine sustainable development and ethical innovation through an ecological lens that centers care for both human and nonhuman life.
With a background in research, communications strategy, and both project and program management, I work across disciplines to advance ethical innovation and systems change. Whether writing, researching, or advocating for animals and ecosystems, I strive to connect ideas with action and help build more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate futures.
My research interests include political and social ecology, peacebuilding, environmental governance, human–nonhuman–nature relationships, multispecies and ecological justice, legal ethics, and more-than-human life. I focus on ethical and sustainable transformation that reexamines the inherited histories and systems shaping our present, and moves toward futures that sustain and support all living systems, species, and ecologies of care.
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I hold a BFA in Visual Art from the conceptual art program at Mason Gross School of the Arts and an MS in Global Affairs from New York University, where I formally concentrated in Peacebuilding and completed full concentration‑level coursework in Energy and Environmental Policy and International Development and Humanitarian Assistance.
My Master’s thesis—awarded With Distinction—examined the impacts of climate change in the Arctic, including the loss and endangerment of marine and terrestrial biodiversity, alongside increasing regional militarization, corporatization, and politicization. It explored the political ecology of international law and religion, and how these legacies shape our understanding of non-human welfare and rights. Ultimately, I argued for recognizing the Arctic as a global commons and a common heritage of humankind, with Indigenous knowledge systems leading its governance.
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My research and interests in legal, moral, and cultural ethics, sustainable development, the rights of nature, and emerging technologies align closely with my professional experiences in art, education, and operations. From early work with wearable tech and smart voice systems to recent research on AI and human rights, I have consistently pursued considered thoughtful, cross‑disciplinary innovation. I’ve written policy briefs, co-authored AI country reports, and contributed to the Artificial Intelligence and Democratic Values Index with the Center for AI and Digital Policy.
Alongside my research, I’ve developed art installations merging ecology and creativity—such as a living greenhouse sewn from discarded plastic bags—and collaborated with artists and arthouses including Sol LeWitt and sound-art pioneer Pauline Oliveros. I have also led SMART command development for major brands such as Samsung and LG, and supported education initiatives across Asia by designing tech-integrated English curricula for institutions like YBM and RISE Global.
At the heart of my work is a commitment to collaboration grounded in ethics, care, and meaningful impact. Whether presenting research at the United Nations CSW69 or shaping conservation policy, I aim to translate ideas into practice and advance a just and sustainable future for people, animals, and ecosystems as interconnected and mutually sustaining.
As a lifelong learner, I am endlessly curious and always connecting dots. If I don’t know something, I investigate. If something needs to be done, I figure out how. If you would like to work together, exchange ideas, or collaborate on a meaningful and creative endeavor, please reach out, I would love to connect!
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Park‑Burrows, J. S., Segura, C., Viñals Musquera, A., & Wodaj, R. (2025). Artificial Intelligence Policy to Combat Human Trafficking. Emerging Technologies for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (pp. 23–26). Balsillie School of International Affairs. Lead Author. [LINK]
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AI & Democratic Values (AIDV) Index 2026. Center for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP), 2026. Section Authors (Switzerland): Jennifer Park, Marin Milenkoski, Kevin Harerimana, Nataly Garcia. Contributed to updating, revising, and analyzing the Switzerland country section. [LINK]
