Nicki Lisa Cole, PhD is a broadly trained American sociologist with expertise in global political economy, global supply chains, the ethics of production and consumption, and consumer culture. Her current research focuses on the barriers and pathways to social, economic and environmental sustainability in the global electronics sector.

Past projects have focused on the social and environmental costs of electronics production and the branding, marketing and consumer culture surrounding Apple products. Nicki also has experience and expertise in food and agriculture, with past projects focused on the global trades in coffee and sugar.