What inspired you to study at DPIR?
I’ve been interested in pursuing a PhD for years, but I wanted to find a department that was the best fit for my research interests and long-term goals. DPIR captured my attention for several reasons: the work of my now-supervisors closely matched my own interests and offered genuine support for my research, the department’s diverse academic expertise would enable me to grow beyond my niche, and the ongoing research projects provided a broader learning experience for my DPhil years.
What is your research topic?
My research focuses on the role of religious actors in conflict mediation in Israel/Palestine. Conflict mediation in academics emphasises the importance of including civil society actors in official negotiations after a violent conflict, but the role of religious actors has not received commiserate attention, despite their local influence and legitimacy. I believe this omission limits our broader understanding of what makes peace processes inclusive, successful and durable. Using historic case studies, expert interviews and a field-based survey experiment, I plan to investigate how the inclusion of religious actors in official negotiations in Israel/Palestine could influence the success and sustainability of a peace deal.
What do you enjoy the most about studying within DPIR?
DPIR supports my DPhil research while also opening the door to academic and professional opportunities. Alongside my primary project, I’ve been able to present my work, attend conferences and collaborate on various initiatives, all of which help me build essential skills and grow my professional network with the support of the department.
What life lessons have you learnt so far that you will take from studying at Oxford?
One of the most meaningful lessons I’ve learned at Oxford so far is the value of intellectual humility, which only comes from listening to others. Being surrounded by people who bring such different backgrounds, questions, and ways of thinking has repeatedly reminded me to be aware of my own perspective and to include inherent complexity in my writing. That openness to others, and the patience to sit with complicated realities rather than rush to answers, is something I’ll carry with me well beyond my time here.
What are your future plans - life and career goals?
I would like to become a professor, both to continue developing my own research but also to support students who, like me, are looking for answers about religion’s role in international relations and conflict. I’m excited to contribute to the field through writing and publishing, but being able to teach future generations of policymakers and mediators would be incredibly rewarding.
What piece of advice or message would you give to prospective DPIR students?
The professors at DPIR have incredible stories to share, and the University will open so many opportunities to you – but your cohort will be your biggest source of strength and support. Their experiences and insights will enrich your own project, but they will also carry you through the inevitable cycles of reading, writing, submitting and rewriting with their own hard-won knowledge and plenty of encouragement.