Dr. Spinks joined UNT in 2009, and oversees all sustainability efforts at the university in areas of research, operations, outreach, and teaching students. He has received over $2.2 million in grant monies, to conduct research and implement infrastructure projects in renewable energy. Dr. Spinks serves on, and works with, several UNT research groups, to include the Renewable Energy & Conservation research cluster. Dr. Spinks travels internationally consulting communities, government leaders, and corporate executives toward developing frameworks for sustainable growth. Prior to joining UNT, Dr. Spinks worked at the US EPA, as the lead social scientist on several regional and national task forces to develop solutions addressing community development, environmental justice, challenges to indigenous communities, intergovernmental relations, and environmental issues around the globe. Dr. Spinks' research and course instruction focus on international sustainable community development, causes of political violence, and comparative politics. Dr. Spinks served in the US Army, stationed in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Ph.D., Information Science, University of North Texas
M.A., Political Science, University of North Texas
B.A., International Studies, University of North Texas
B.A., History, University of North Texas

INST 2100: Introduction to International Studies
INST 4856: International Sustainable Community Development
MEEN 4110/5110: Alternative Energy Sources (for INTL Development)