"James’ research interests include fire ecology, systems ecology, rangeland ecology, natural resource management, plant-animal interactions, ecological modelling and land degradation. James trained as a plant ecologist. He has vast experience on grazing management systems, land degradation, agroforestry, community-based natural resource management, livestock production and ecological modelling. James has worked extensively in rural areas in both Zimbabwe and South Africa. James teaches land degradation, ecological systems and environmental management at undergraduate level. He also teaches ecological modelling and community-based natural resource management at postgraduate level. James received the VC’s Senior Distinguished teaching award in 2010. He has supervised 20 MSc students. He is currently supervising 4 MSc and 5 PhD students. He has authored or co-authored 71 papers, conference proceedings, book chapters and research reports."

Fire ecology, systems ecology, rangeland ecology, natural resource management, plant-animal interactions, ecological modelling and land degradation