A year as CHASE Networks Officer

by Rumi Dahar is a PhD candidate at SOAS, where they have submitted their thesis titled, “Seeking, Being, Becoming: The Spiritual Life Journeys of LGBTQIA+ and Feminist Muslims”.

I was drawn to the position of CHASE Networks Officer because it offered the opportunity to nourish communality in a sphere that is systemically marred by individualism and competition. Often, PhD researchers work in silos, isolated and separated from others as we work day in and day out on our respective projects. Networks allow for the creation and development of bonds, which are nourished by connection and are the grounds upon which research can come to life in unexpected and diverse ways. I witnessed this firsthand during my tenure as Networks Officer.

I was consistently impressed through learning about and supporting networks’ activities. They have organised field trips, attended conferences online and abroad, hosted authors and academics, launched journal issues, created playful and creative ways of engaging with research, recorded podcasts, and the goes on… It prompted me to consider the wider potential of my own research and to think creatively about who I want my research to reach, and how – beyond (solely) the publication and reading of the thesis by a largely elite academic class. To anyone looking to take on the role of Networks Officer, prepare to be inspired.

I gained a host of new skills and experiences that I would not have otherwise, as well. In particular, through maintaining the website and conducting digital marketing campaigns, my online literacy has significantly improved. These new challenges have been refreshing and exciting areas of learning distinct from – yet complementary to – thesis-writing. Whilst it is easy to get swept up in reading and writing, it’s important to develop a well-rounded range of skills and experience for entering the job market – and simply because it’s fun to try new things!

As CHASE Networks Officer, you will be supported by a kind, friendly and flexible team. They have given me opportunities to grow, and have been incredibly understanding around my shifting deadlines, particularly around submission. The relationships between myself and the CHASE team and networks have made the placement what it is: enjoyable and full of potential.

Finally, I became attuned to the crucial role played by institutions such as CHASE in supporting researchers navigate harsher economic and political terrains that make it difficult to conduct research and to live. The importance of networks was renewed in my mind, and I am proud to have shared in the resilience and creative thinking of the CHASE team who care about the present and futurity of research and researchers. Thus, the role of CHASE Networks Officer is an important part of keeping arts and humanities research alive and ongoing, and I look forward to seeing it thrive under another’s leadership.

If you would like to discuss the role, or if you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch 665777@soas.ac.uk.

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