Xinbei Wang

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

I am fortunate to work with a highly experienced and supportive supervisory team, each with a strong track record in complementary areas of my research. My supervisors bring expertise in colonial history, post-colonial theory, and cultural heritage management, providing invaluable guidance and critical insights. Their commitment to fostering innovative and impactful research has been a cornerstone of my academic journey. Also, the research centres in our university, like the International Centre for Heritage, offer access to cutting-edge resources and international networks.

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

My work focuses on exploring the enduring impacts of colonialism on cultural heritage, examining how historical narratives are shaped, contested, and preserved in post-colonial contexts. I aim to work at the intersection of academia and policy-making, advocating for more inclusive and equitable approaches to cultural heritage that amplify marginalized voices and promote reconciliation in post-colonial societies. My supervisory team provides tailored guidance that not only enhances the quality of my research but also prepares me for academic leadership roles. Moreover, the university offers workshops on research skills, grant writing, public engagement, and career planning, all of which are vital for transitioning into post-PhD roles.

What do you think is unique about the University of Birmingham?

Birmingham’s diverse cultural landscape offers a living laboratory to study how heritage practices can address contemporary social challenges. University of Birmingham fosters interdisciplinary research, which has enabled me to work on projects that integrate history, cultural studies, and social policy. The university’s global connections provide opportunities to work on international case studies and collaborate with heritage organizations worldwide.

Tell us about your experience taking part in an international conference at Birmingham

I took part in the Society for Global Nineteenth Century Studies World Congress as a committee assistant, panel chair, and presenter. Helping with registration allowed me to meet many attendees early on, which made me feel more confident when presenting and chairing sessions later. The experience helped me improve my public speaking skills and boosted my confidence, especially as someone who tends to be nervous.

Academically, presenting my research and receiving feedback from international scholars helped me think more deeply about my work and inspired new ideas. I also had the chance to build connections and learn from other fascinating presentations, which will benefit my future studies and research.