Could you describe your research topic to someone from another discipline in one sentence?
In my dissertation, I examine how the social living environment in the parental home influences the gender of trans* individuals and, conversely, how the gender of trans* individuals affects the living environment. Additionally, I explore how experiences of discrimination are inscribed in the bodies of trans* individuals.
Why did you decide to do your doctorate in Bonn?
I ended up at the University of Bonn for my master's degree in geography relatively by chance and quickly felt at home in the city. To be honest, I never planned to do a doctorate, and the topic for my dissertation only developed in the course of my master's thesis. Fortunately, I found a great working group and a dedicated supervisor at the Institute of Geography who support me and my project.
What do you especially like about the University of Bonn?
I am happy to see that the University of Bonn is taking more and more measures in the area of gender equality that also include queer realities. Especially in light of current political developments and increasing hostility toward queer and trans* people, it is essential to protect the rights of queer and trans* individuals and to firmly establish such structures.
Do you have a tip on how to overcome the lack of motivation during difficult phases of the dissertation?
Lack of motivation is normal, and I think it can be very helpful for your work to take a short break to come up with new ideas and also ask yourself where this low is coming from. Of course, this is not possible for everyone. Otherwise, it always helps me to work with other people in shared spaces, for example, as part of a joint writing group.
What advice would you give new doctoral researchers at the University of Bonn?
Connect with other doctoral students. I work on my dissertation alone most of the time, which can be a bit lonely at times. It has helped me a lot to network at different levels, whether within my institute, between different disciplines, or even beyond the university.
Which training opportunity at the University Bonn has been most beneficial to you?
For me, writing groups have been the most effective so far, both the self-organized writing group at the Geography Department and institutionalized offerings such as the Doctorate plus program's writing workshop.
Daniel Alejandro Torres-Püschel, the doctoral student featured in our September issue, wanted to know: What helps you most to stay motivated?
I am most motivated by the trans* people who share their experiences with me. These people confide in me about very intimate, personal, and sometimes painful experiences so that their experiences can help other trans* people. I am very grateful that these people talk to me and consider myself lucky to be able to tell their stories. This way, I hope to increase awareness about the realities of life for trans* people in our society.
Thank you for the interview. We wish you all the best and every success for the future!