Each year the British Society for Literature and Science supports a one-day symposium on a theme related to the research interests of the BSLS, which we define broadly, to include any aspect of literature and science, technology, medicine, and environment.
The Winter Symposium is typically a postgraduate-led event that centres around a specific theme. This year, the executive committee is particularly interested in proposals on the theme of ‘Decolonising Literature and Science.’
Recent years have seen an increase in efforts to decolonise the curriculum and the academy following the success of BAME-student-led campaigns such as “Rhodes Must Fall” (2016) and “Why is My Curriculum White?” (2015). Within the field of literature and science, there have been growing calls to confront the cultural and “epistemological inheritance of imperial science” (Choksey, “Peripheral Adaptation,” 2019) and to “examine the institutional structures and orders of knowledge that we reproduce in our work” (Gill, “Decolonising Literature and Science,” 2018).
Our proposed theme is motivated by the urgent need to evaluate how colonialism and imperialism have shaped the study of literature and science, past and present. We would like to invite applications from postgraduates and early-career researchers to lead a one-day symposium on this topic.
We therefore welcome applications from postgraduates and early-career researchers whose research specialises in decolonial and anti-colonial approaches to literature and science. We are especially keen to hear from BAME PGRs and ECRs.
It is hoped that this event will have a ‘non-conference’ feel, and include different types of papers, panels, and ways of sharing knowledge. As well as showcasing ongoing research, the event might include sessions on research skills, knowledge exchange, and career advice.
The event will take place virtually on an agreed date in November. The BSLS Executive Committee will support the conference organisers throughout the process, including assisting with technical and administrative duties.
Please email a short proposal to Rachel Murray by the 1st of August 2021. Proposals should include a description of the event, details of the organising group and location, potential speakers (if known), types of papers, panels, or other sessions to be included, and a rough budget. The BSLS will award up to £500 in support of the symposium, which should be free to attend if possible.
