Dr James Lesh is a heritage researcher, writer and consultant. His research considers the ways history and conservation intersect with development and community in urban contexts.
Adopting a variety of methods, his work examines perceptions and principles of heritage, the changeability of heritage over time, and the global dimensions of conservation knowledge.
James publishes widely. His academic refereed articles have ranged from the changing relationship between skyscrapers and heritage to the history of urban conservation and the Australian Burra Charter (for managing cultural heritage places). He is currently writing a book on heritage conservation in Australian cities since the 1880s, and co-editing a book collection on historic places, place attachment and emotion.
James has delivered public talks, curated exhibitions, designed walking tours, and reviewed books and exhibitions. His writing has appeared in newspapers and he has been interviewed for broadcast media.
For James’ latest activities, follow him on Twitter, Instagram and Linkedin, and visit his blog. He is also available for speaking engagements and public commentary: please get in touch.
Research Affiliations
University of Sydney (2019–2020)
Postdoctoral Research Associate
Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning
University of Melbourne (2014–2019)
Research Assistant and Sessional Lecturer and Tutor
Faculty of Arts
Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning
King’s College London (2016–2019)
Research Fellow
Menzies Australia Institute
Victoria University (2015)
Research Assistant
Qualifications
Doctor of Philosophy, University of Melbourne
Master of Arts, Queen Mary University of London
Bachelor of Arts with Honours, University of Melbourne
Bachelor of Commerce, University of Melbourne
Major prizes and awards
Australian Postgraduate Award, University of Melbourne.
Australian Bicentennial Scholarship, King’s College London.
Principal’s Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievement, Queen Mary University of London.
AGL Shaw Summer Research Fellowship, State Library of Victoria.
Last updated: April 2019.