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Finding Focus: Intentional Thinking in Academia
The writer reflects on the importance of slowing down amidst the pressure of productivity and capitalism. Emphasising a mindful approach to PhD studies, they advocate for intentional, small progress rather than rushing. They seek calm and space for deep thought, aiming to prioritise mental wellbeing over external expectations in academia.
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Reflections on the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership Retreat
This week, I attended the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership residential at Cumberland Lodge, focusing on social division. The event included ice-breaking activities, nature-based resilience sessions, creative badge-making, and karaoke in remembrance of a late friend. Overall, it revitalised my energy for my PhD and social interactions.
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My Research
Katie Munday, a PhD candidate at the University of Portsmouth, researches the experiences of transgender and gender-diverse autistic adults in accessing health and social care in the UK. Their community-based projects focus on healthcare accessibility, substance use in autistic individuals, and improving cancer service resources for marginalised communities.
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2025 in Review: Advocacy Wins and Personal Growth
The year was transformative, marked by advocacy wins such as the closure of the Spectrum 10K project, significant academic achievements including the completion of a PhD year, and a strong sense of community in research. Ongoing efforts highlight the importance of Autistic voices and mental health, fueling hope for future progress.
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Philosophical Foundations: Ontology and Epistemology Explained
The author reflects on their difficulty understanding ontology and epistemology during their undergraduate studies, ultimately identifying as a relativist-constructionist. They explain ontology as the exploration of existence and reality perception, while epistemology examines knowledge acquisition. Different epistemological perspectives include objectivism, constructionism, and subjectivism, shaping research approaches and interpretations.
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Navigating Work-Life Balance in PhD Pursuits
The author emphasizes that work/life balance is complex during a PhD, particularly within their community. They critique the pressure to prioritize studies, leading to burnout among students. Drawing from personal experiences, including an autism diagnosis, they advocate for self-awareness in managing mental wellbeing, while grappling with systemic challenges in academia.
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Promoting LGBTQIA+ Equity in Education: Insights from a Researcher
LGBTQIA+ justice involves recognising and valuing individuals in the community, aiming for equity and allied liberation. The author advocates for visibility and accountability within academic settings, confronting transphobia while supporting trans+ individuals. They emphasise the importance of boundaries and creating supportive environments for LGBTQIA+ liberation, amid ongoing challenges in academia.
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Enhancing Accessibility for Autistic Clients in Substance Use Services
I am part-way through my SCDTP internship with Portsmouth City Council, focusing on enhancing accessibility for Autistic clients in substance use services. Utilising findings from the Autistic Substance Use Network, I am auditing training and Recovery Hub environments while collaborating with LGBTQIA+ recovery workers to develop a comprehensive accessibility blueprint.
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Reflecting on a Year of Research and Growth as a PhD Student
In preparation for an upcoming major review in October, I reflect on my significant academic achievements, including organising a symposium and presenting at various conferences. I am actively writing on topics related to health disparities affecting trans autistic individuals, collaborating with established researchers, and looking forward to future projects and presentations, with another busy year…
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Finding Strength in Community: A Trans+ Autistic Researcher’s Journey
The author discusses the challenges faced by trans and Autistic individuals amidst societal hate, particularly in the US and UK. They express exhaustion from the violence seen online and its impact on their research and social life. Despite this, they find strength in their supportive community and ongoing activist work.