What inspired you to study at DPIR?
I have been passionate about the study of international relations since high school, having read a book about the emotions of geopolitics. Studying IR at the undergraduate and the postgraduate level thus almost seems like a natural choice for me. I am particularly drawn to DPIR by its amazingly diverse, stimulating, and supportive intellectual community. I am also very impressed by the conducive environment that DPIR offers to study IR from many different theoretical and methodological approaches, which makes the Department my intellectual home.
What is your research topic?
I work on critical IR and global IR theory building, drawing from postcolonial and feminist traditions, with a regional focus on China-Africa relations. My doctoral research looks at the intersection of race, modernity, and international hierarchy (as perceived from ‘below’ and by non-Euro-American actors). I have also been fascinated by critical security studies, in particular, the study of the ideational foundation of imperial conflicts and imperial projects. Most recently, I am also collaborating to write on the nature-human relations in shaping global modernity (towards ‘multispecies IR’).
What do you enjoy the most about studying within DPIR?
My DPhil journey was a very enjoyable ride for me. But perhaps the thing that I have enjoyed - and benefited from - the most is all the support I have received from Professor Todd Hall, my supervisor, my mentors, and from the Department generally. Probably as everyone else, doing DPhil research amid Covid lockdown was never easy: I have experienced funding issues, problems with accessing materials, and other personal difficulties. It was the generous and kind support that I have received from the DPIR that kept me going, eventually turning my DPhil monograph into something that I am truly happy about. On top of these, I also greatly appreciate how much generosity I have received in developing my ongoing research projects, especially from Profs Laura Sjoberg and Meera Sabaratnam, the support from Joby Mullens in promoting my work, and the instrumental funding support from the Department.
What life lessons have you learnt so far that you will take from studying at Oxford?
The intellectual community, especially one like Oxford, has always been associated with smartness or intelligence. It is surely important for one’s academic success. But what seems even more important, at least speaking from my own experience, is the kindness and empathy from fellow researchers. I appreciate how intellectual advice and morale support - from professors, friends, and colleagues - are often just ‘one email away’. Research and thinking are exercises often done in solitude, while kindness and empathy are the fuel that keeps us going.
What are your future plans - life and career goals?
My imminent career plan is to look for academic positions in higher education institutions (in the UK and elsewhere), as I truly enjoy teaching, especially the stimulating conversations with my students in the classroom. They are often the food for thought, inspiring my own work.
Professionally, I have also been working for the UN to advise on gender mainstreaming efforts in industrial transformation projects in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, with an emphasis on the elimination of hazardous chemicals, and the promotion of circular economy solutions to biodiversity and waste management.
What piece of advice or message would you give to prospective DPIR students?
DPIR has been a warm, supportive, and stimulating intellectual home for me. Hope you will love it as well.