The University of Greenwich, London, is offering a Vice Chancellor’s Scholarship for the PhD project: Data visualisation
in practice: articulating spatial forms of knowledge. This is a fully-funded opportunity (fees + bursary at the UKRI rate, for 3 years FT or 6
years PT).
Project description
While quantitative analysts widely acknowledge that the creation of data sets involves selection and interpretation, less critical attention has been paid to how the graphical display of data shapes understanding. Visualizations of
data are neither neutral nor transparent – they entail the translation of numerical data into spatial forms which can be apprehended as images, thus morphing information which may be non-linear and multi-dimensional into forms which are determined by the parameters
of the human senses. Moreover, these processes of visual interpretation are imbued with a range of assumptions and cultural biases which require further scrutiny, because they contain codes and hierarchies inherited from the history of visual culture –for
example, presuppositions about what constitutes a “scientific image” based on Western notions of objectivity (Johanna Drucker, 2020). This raises the question of whether visualisation practices could be decolonised to democratise knowledge production and communication.
We invite proposals for practice-led research projects that would contribute to critical understanding of data visualization practices by excavating the assumptions, articulating how knowledge is transformed in the translation from numerical to visual formats,
and exploring the potentials of using data visualizations to engage diverse audiences in current problematics.
The candidate will contribute to the growth in practice-led digital media research in the School of Design and will have access to the purpose-built media facilities in our Stockwell Street building and will be supported by a supervisory
team expertise in media theory, digital humanities, and creative practice-research. Articulating spatial forms of knowledge data visualizations are an essential means of communicating knowledge in the contemporary world.
Research proposals should identify a specific area of knowledge production where data visualisation has potential social, cultural, or environmental impact; define a target audience to communicate with; and outline a practice-led methodology
to test the effects of articulating information visually.
The deadline for applications is 16 September 2022. Further details and person specification can be found here:
And details of how to apply:
https://www.gre.ac.uk/research/study/research-studentships-and-scholarships
Candidates who have questions or would like an informal discussion of their proposal prior to submitting their application are welcome to contact lead supervisor, Dr Hannah Lammin: [log in to unmask]