Education

Ph.D., The University of Texas at Austin
M.A., California State University, Fullerton
B.A., Chapman University

Research

Brett Robertson examines how individuals and institutions prepare for and respond to emergencies, with a focus on information flow, message design, organizational response, and public interpretation during high-risk events. His work explores how digital platforms, media, and trusted sources shape risk perception, preparedness, and coordination during hazards and extreme weather. He collaborates with emergency management organizations, public health practitioners, and interdisciplinary research teams, using survey design, statistical analysis, and qualitative methods to study how communication can support decision-making and public safety. Robertson is the associate director of the Hazards Vulnerability and Resilience Institute (HVRI) and a UNESCO Fellow.

Teaching

Drawing on a background in public affairs and healthcare, Robertson brings a student-centered, experiential approach to the classroom that emphasizes relevance, real-world application, and professional preparation. His teaching incorporates partnerships with outside organizations, applied projects, and high-stakes simulations to help students connect theory to practice in meaningful ways. Known for his mentorship and for course designs built on Universal Design for Learning (UDL), he creates learning environments that support critical thinking, collaboration, and long-term growth.

Awards

Integrity Award, 2026, Office of Student Conduct, University of South Carolina

Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award, 2025, University of South Carolina

Mônica Pombo Early Career Teaching Award, 2025, Carolinas Communication Association

Ross Brinkert Rising Star Early Career Award, 2024, National Communication Association (NCA) Training & Development Division

Top Paper Award, 2024, National Communication Association (NCA) Communication & the Future Division

Top Paper Award, 2024, International Communication Association (ICA) Environmental Communication Division

Recent Publications

Robertson, B. W., Dow, K., Salinas, J., & Cutter, S. L. (2024). Heat risk perceptions and coping strategies of the unhoused. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 21(6), 737.

Robertson, B. W. (2025). Anticipating breakdown: A call for interdisciplinary futures in cascading crises and speculative risk communication. Mediascapes Journal, 26(2), 1-20.

Dow, K., Robertson, B. W., Salinas, J., & Cutter, S. L. (2026). Geographic context and differences in perception of extreme heat risks among vulnerable communities. Weather, Climate, and Society, 18(2), 329-342.

Hiscox, A. L., Carbone, G., Nordberg, M., Salinas, J., Dow, K., Robertson, B. W., & Cutter, S. L. (2026). Forecasted heat and vulnerable populations: Understanding limitations associated with new tools. Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, 107(9), E2307-E2325.