Sean Mulcahy
Voices of the Alliance
We invited researchers, staff, students and graduates to share their views of the Monash Warwick Alliance.
Give a brief overview of who you are and what you are studied at the Alliance?
I loved the research aspects of my undergraduate, and that is what motivated me to participate in the International Conference on Undergraduate Research. I also wanted the chance to study abroad, ideally in the United Kingdom, towards the end of my degree. Warwick seemed a perfect fit because it was close to the Royal Shakespeare Company and their Law School had a reputation for interdisciplinary research and scholarship on law, literature and humanities. I loved my time at Warwick so much I decided to apply for the joint PhD program, which allowed me to combine my interest in law and theatre under mentorship from academics working in these areas at Warwick and Monash, and also gave me the opportunity to make research connections across continents.
What were the top three highlights of working with the Alliance?
The top 3 highlights from my experience with the Monash-Warwick Alliance programs were: (1) the connections made with peers and academics across the two universities and two continents; (2) the ability to travel and see the world; and (3) the insights gained from the different research environments in the United Kingdom and Australia.
What do you hope to pursue after you graduate?
I am currently working as a research officer at La Trobe University through a connection made during my Monash-Warwick Alliance joint PhD. As part of my research, I regularly present at international conferences, using the skills gained from my participation in International Conferences for Undergraduate Research. I am currently working as a research officer at La Trobe University through a connection made during my Monash-Warwick Alliance joint PhD. As part of my research, I regularly present at international conferences, using the skills gained from my participation in International Conferences for Undergraduate Research. At the end of my term at La Trobe University, I hope to continue my passion for research into theatre and law and embark upon research projects that probe and explore this intersection from a different angle. One example is looking at LGBTQIA+ human rights claims and how useful human rights is as a framework for guiding LGBTQIA+ law reform; in particular, how community advocates perform rights claims before parliamentary hearings, i.e. marriage equality.
Can you share one fun fact about yourself or your work?
I am also a some-time actor and have performed at the Malthouse Theatre, Arts Centre and La Mama Theatre.
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