Charlotte Petersson Troije
Lecturer

Presentation

I hold a Ph.D. in Work Life Science and teach Leadership and organization at the Department of Urban Studies at Malmö University. I am also affiliated with Mälardalen University, where I defended my dissertation in 2024, titled Turning Work Inside Out: Exploring Outdoor Office Work. My research is based on my idea STICK UT, which explores the potential of the outdoors for the work we typically do indoors. So far, the focus has been on office work—that is, “outdoor office work”—but the goal is for more people to be able to benefit from the advantages that working outdoors can offer. My findings show that there is much to be gained out there. Outdoor office work can contribute to a healthier and smarter work life in several ways, particularly by:

• enhancing health, recovery, and cognitive ability
• promoting collaboration, creativity, and innovation
• creating a stronger sense of connection—both within oneself, with others, and with nature

Working outdoors works in more weather conditions and contexts than many people think, but requires support in policies, leadership, culture, and some practical tools—for example, to take notes during walking meetings, or to get shade for the screen in the “outdoor office.” A learning process is needed to find your own ways to step outside. However, it is not only our habits and ways of working that are challenged when we take office work outdoors, but also our norms. Stepping outside can trigger feelings of guilt, as if it doesn’t count as “real” work.

A Little More About Me

I have extensive professional experience across various sectors and organizations: from cosmetics exports and administrative work in the insurance industry to serving as a department manager at a hotel in Dubai. I have also co-owned a wholesale business specializing in horseshoes and farriery equipment. In addition, I have been active in the nonprofit sector and have served on the board of SIRA (Swedish Interactive Research Association) since 2013. At Malmö University, I have held several positions, including organizational developer, collaboration coordinator, and "boundary agent" for the Institute for Sustainable Urban Development.

During the 2025/26 academic year, I am participating in the Societal Impact Lab, where I am developing ways to engage and empower more people to stand out—for a more sustainable and innovative working