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Natasha Awais-Dean
Research Integrity Manager - Visiting Research Fellow - Co-chair NEST, Parents & Carers Network - EDI Lead RMID
Professional Background
Natasha Awais-Dean is a distinguished Research Integrity Manager at King’s College London, with an extensive background that traverses research, project management, and museum curating. Her career reflects a firm commitment to the integrity of research practices while championing the importance of material culture in the understanding of history, especially as it pertains to early modern Europe. With a wealth of knowledge in jewellery and metalwork, Natasha effectively blends academia with practical experience in curating engaging museum exhibitions.
Throughout her career, Natasha has held several notable positions, including serving as a Visiting Research Fellow at King’s College London, where her research interests converged with her responsibilities to uphold research integrity within the academic community. Additionally, she has worked as an Independent Researcher and Curator, crafting thought-provoking narratives around historical artefacts, primarily focusing on jewellery that reflects the intricate designs and cultural significance of its time.
In her capacity at King’s College London, Natasha also plays an active role in fostering an inclusive community as the co-chair of the Parent and Carer Staff Network. Her dedication to supporting colleagues navigating both professional and personal responsibilities reflects her holistic approach to workplace dynamics and her support for work-life balance.
Education and Achievements
Natasha's educational background is robust and diverse, laying the foundation for her successful career. She studied for her PhD in Research in English at Queen Mary, University of London. This rigorous program equipped her with critical analytical skills and a comprehensive understanding of research methodologies that she applies daily in her current position.
Prior to her PhD, Natasha completed her MA in History of Design at the prestigious Royal College of Art, where she developed a keen understanding of the nuances of design history and its intersection with cultural identity. Her initial foray into academia began at the University of Cambridge, where she obtained another MA in Modern and Medieval Languages. This multifaceted education has not only enriched her personal perspectives but has also been an invaluable asset in her professional endeavors, allowing her to engage with a diverse array of subjects and articulate them in both written and spoken form.
Among her numerous accomplishments, Natasha has served as the Co-Editor for Jewellery Studies, published by the Society of Jewellery Historians. This role allowed her to collaborate with other experts in the field while promoting scholarly discourse regarding jewellery history. Furthermore, her contributions as the Features Editor for Jewellery History Today further underscore her commitment to advancing public understanding of jewellery as a critical component of social history.
Research Interests
Natasha's research interests lie primarily in early modern European material culture, with a particular emphasis on jewellery and metalwork. She brings a unique perspective to the study of historical artefacts, exploring how these items are indicative of broader social and economic patterns. Her passion for early modern jewellery has also manifested in her lecturing engagements, where she educates students and fellow researchers about the context and significance of these artistic pieces.
Through her lectures on research integrity alongside her specialization in early modern jewellery, Natasha can bridge the gap between concepts of credibly conducted research and the critical examination of historical materials. This dual focus allows her to engage students in meaningful discussions about both the ethics of research and the artistry of the past.
Achievements
- Research Integrity Manager: Leading initiatives at King’s College London to uphold and enhance research integrity across various academic disciplines.
- Co-Chair of the Parent and Carer Staff Network: Actively advocating for staff support within the academic environment, fostering inclusivity and work-life balance.
- Co-Editor for Jewellery Studies: Contributing to the academic community through collaborative editorial responsibilities that promote richer discussions in the field of jewellery history.
- Visiting Research Fellow: Engaging in high-level research that influences contemporary scholarly work in material culture.
- Exhibitions and Curation: Extensive experience as a curator within notable institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and The British Museum, demonstrating her ability to translate historical knowledge into engaging public exhibitions.
