Irmelin is a human geographer focusing on just transformations towards increased sustainability with specific attention to the linkages between climate change adaptation and societal transformation. She has a Bachelor in international relations from Roskilde University, a Masters in Northern Studies from University of Alaska Fairbanks, and a PhD from University of Oslo in Human Geography, which she defended in June 2022. The dissertation was based on a collaboration with an Alaska Native community from southwest Alaska and explored a relational approach to sustainability transformations based on relational, feminist and decolonial theorizing.

Previously, Irmelin has worked with environmental innovation and the reduction of food waste in both Denmark and Norway in close collaboration with businesses and the public sector. Prior to her engagement at Western Noray Research Institute, she worked as a research advisor for the social innovation company cCHANGE, focusing on translating transformations research into practical tools and processes for organizations and businesses in Norway and abroad.

As of July 2026, Irmelin is leading the Norwegian Center for Sustainable Land Use Through Transformative Research and Practice, LANDFUTURES.