Roads to the Future: The Anthropology of Gender and Infrastructure Development in Africa
Over the past few years, countries in Africa and the Indian Ocean Rim have seen a massive increase in road building projects and upgrade schemes. These schemes are justified in terms of economic development and modernity. However, little is known about the impacts of these new road projects especially for the people who live alongside them. More research is needed to understand ways in which roads may disrupt livelihoods in both positive and negative ways and for different demographics including women, youth, the elderly, and children. Ethnographic research is needed to understand the gendered socio-economic, cultural, and health implications.
Roads to the Future is Australia’s first major ARC-funded research on political, economic, and cultural effects of infrastructure in East Africa and the Western Indian Ocean. The programme of research is comparing road-building projects to understand how they contribute to sustainable and just development. Case studies are proposed across eight countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Madagascar, Seychelles, and Mauritius. The PhD project will be part of the Roads to Future programme based at Murdoch University.
Eligibility
We are looking for a high performing, enthusiastic and independent PhD candidate with interdisciplinary skills including Anthropology and Development Studies and with expertise in qualitative methods and gender analysis. The candidate must be willing to travel to Africa and work alongside a range of stakeholders including government officials, non-government actors, other PhD and academic researchers in the Roads to the Future programme. Experience of having lived and worked in Africa is desirable.How to Apply
Email Associate Professor Rochelle Spencer with
1. A cover letter
2. CV
3. Academic transcripts
Associate Professor Rochelle Spencer rochelle.spencer@murdoch.edu.au
Indo-Pacific Research Centre, Murdoch University
Required Documents
Cover letter detailing your interest and relevant background in anthropology, gender, and development; research background; relevant training/experience in qualitative research methods and analysis; demonstrated track record in project management; demonstrated capacity to work independently and as a member of a team; your PhD project ideas and proposed country and road project.
CV outlining academic qualifications and achievements
Academic transcripts