Aman Thakur

Why did you choose Birmingham Law School?

Why I chose the University of Birmingham:

• Birmingham has a strong reputation in human rights law and socio-legal studies. This makes it a great place to explore the lived experiences of persons with disabilities in assessment processes.
• Support for international researchers. As an international student, I found Birmingham’s research environment welcoming, with strong academic and wellbeing support.
• Opportunities for engagement. My involvement in The Brilliant Club, the Postgraduate Student Ambassador role, and disability rights discussions has been facilitated by the university’s supportive academic culture.

What makes Birmingham the best place to conduct research in your area of interest?

Birmingham provides an exceptional environment for research in disability assessment policies, particularly from a human rights perspective. The institution’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, empirical research support, and a vibrant academic community makes it an ideal setting.​

My research and supervisory team

My research examines how disability assessment processes affect persons with disabilities and how these policies can be reformed to be more inclusive and just.

My supervisory team has been instrumental in guiding my research. My Primary Supervisor is Professor Rosie Harding, Professor of Law and Society and Deputy Dean at Birmingham Law School. She focuses her research on the intersection of law and everyday life, emphasising social justice, disability, and family law. Her work explores how legal frameworks impact caring and intimate relationships, using both qualitative and quantitative empirical methods.

My Co-Supervisor is Professor Natasa Mavronicola, Professor of Human Rights Law. She specialises in the theory and interpretation of human rights. Her research delves into absolute rights, particularly the prohibition of torture and inhuman or degrading treatment, as well as the right to life.

Their expertise aligns with my research, ensuring I receive strong theoretical and practical guidance.

Research activity in the Department

I actively participate in the Disability Law Research Group, which organises discussions on contemporary disability law issues.

The Law School offers workshops and training on empirical legal research, which supports my methodology.

What's your career goal and how is Birmingham helping you reach this?

My long-term goal is to pursue an academic career that bridges research, teaching, and policy engagement in the field of disability law and human rights.

The University of Birmingham is playing a crucial role in helping me reach this goal in several ways:

1. Academic and research development:

• High-quality supervision: Under the guidance of Professor Rosie Harding and Professor Natasa Mavronicola, I am developing strong research and analytical skills in disability law, human rights, and empirical legal research. Their expertise helps me refine my arguments and methodology.

• Access to research training: The University offers workshops on empirical legal research, qualitative methods, and academic writing, equipping me with essential skills for producing high-impact research.

• Opportunities for conference presentations: Presenting at socio-legal and disability law conferences enhances my ability to communicate my research to wider audiences and build my academic profile.

2. Engagement with disability policy and advocacy:

• Participation in the Disability Law Research Group allows me to engage with ongoing legal and policy debates and collaborate with experts in the field.

• Networking with policymakers and advocacy groups: The University fosters connections with human rights organisations, disability rights groups, and legal scholars, offering insights into real-world policy challenges.

3. Professional development:

• Postgraduate Teaching Assistant (PGTA) : Teaching seminars and workshops at Birmingham Law School has been instrumental in developing my pedagogical and mentoring skills. This role allows me to engage with students’ perspectives, enhance my communication abilities, and strengthen my confidence as an emerging academic.

• Postgraduate Student Ambassador: This experience helps me develop communication, leadership, and mentoring skills, which are essential for academic and advocacy roles.

• PhD tutor in The Brilliant Club: I gain experience in teaching and widening access to higher education, strengthening my ability to make research accessible to diverse audiences.

By the time I complete my PhD, I will be well-equipped for academic positions, policy research roles, or advisory positions. The University of Birmingham provides the resources, mentorship, and research opportunities that are shaping me into a well-rounded scholar and advocate for disability-inclusive policies.