Sam lectures on a range of issues relating to critical criminal justice. Her research research focusses particularly on the legal context of, and causes, of miscarriages of justice. Her work has highlighted the links between policing broadly, and criminal investigation specifically, to wrongful convictions, with clear acknowledgement of the learning opportunities they present for criminal justice professionals. Additionally, Sam has conducted research into a range of areas relating to victims’ experiences of the legal process and injustice and the long-term impacts of this.  Sam's work also focusses on the role of the CCRC and Court of Appeal in addressing alleged wrongful convictions. More recently Sam has published in the field environmental critical criminal justice and law.   

Sam has a variety of responsibilities within the department, including overseeing a suite of Masters schemes.