PhD African Studies and Anthropology student Felix Tombindo says he appreciates the strong collegial spirit in the Department of African Studies and Anthropology. We found out more about his experience as a postgraduate researcher at the University of Birmingham.
Why did you choose to undertake a PhD in Theology and Religion?
My research focus is on small-scale fisheries and the livelihoods of small-scale fisherfolk. My interest in this area started seven years ago when I was deployed to teach at a secondary school in a community that primarily survived on fishing and fish trading. I became curious to know more about how different households navigate the different social, political, economic, and ecological challenges in pursuit of livelihoods and everyday life. This curiosity has crystallised into my PhD project.
Why did you choose to undertake research at the University of Birmingham?
I had just graduated with an MA Social Research from UoB in preparation for a PhD in Anthropology. I completed my MA dissertation under the supervision of Dr Maxim Bolt, and I had no doubt that I wanted to complete my PhD under his supervision. There was a great supervision fit and Dr Bolt’s unmatched mentorship and supportive personality encouraged me to enrol for the PhD. I also appreciated the strong collegial spirit in the Department of African Studies and Anthropology. The department is a small community of students and lecturers who offer great peer support throughout the research process. There is an opportunity to present one’s work and get feedback such that one will not feel lonely during the thesis process.
What are the best things about your course?
The department comprises a very supportive group of academics who are always there to support you throughout the thesis process. There is a great opportunity to network and to present your research to peers and academics. There is a great sense of community, and this is strengthened by the fact that the department is very small, bringing everyone close together.
What support have you received outside of your PhD?
I have received immense support from the department, the school and library services. From the school, I was awarded a fully funded doctoral scholarship without which the project would not have been possible. The department has supported me through offering a platform for me to present my work and receive feedback during the Research Skills and Methods in African Studies. The library services have, in addition to its rich online and hard copy literature sources, provided a range of training for me. These training courses included but are not limited to Development Needs Analysis, working effectively with your supervisor, increasing productivity and managing the research project.