The Research Careers Campus Graz showcases people and networks which shape our research environment here in Graz - towards a more collegial, friendly and diverse academia, where all research talents can thrive.
Today, we showcase two local members of the Austria-wide network “DISTA”, Laura Hochsteiner and Rahel More. Here are their three answers to three questions!
What is your activity called and why does it exist?
DiStA, which stands for “Disability Studies Austria,” is both a research and networking platform for all those interested in the field of Disability Studies (in Austria). It connects people working in accordance with the principles of Disability Studies from different fields: researchers as well as activists and artists come together to exchange ideas and promote disability-related research and matters in Austria. One of our key aims is to reach and engage students and emerging researchers interested in Disability Studies.
What do you personally get out of your engagement with it?
Laura: As I am relatively new to academia and research (on disability), I greatly benefit from the input and guidance of DiStA’s more “seasoned” and experienced members. Our annual “Forschungswerkstatt,” for instance, affords the great opportunity to discuss and reflect on current research (trends and projects) pertaining to Disability Studies in Austria–together with the Austrian luminaries in the field. Of course, it also gives us the chance to network and keep each other abreast of the projects we are currently working on.
Rahel: I joined DiStA years ago as a PhD student when I had just come back from studying and working abroad in the field of Disability Studies. It was (and is) a great opportunity to connect with people committed to Disability Studies in Austria. Through DiStA I became part of an active interdisciplinary (research) community and have together with my colleagues organized a number of events, found research and teaching partners and supported students and emerging researchers.
Why should others join and how can they join?
Others should become members if they want to keep their finger on the pulse of Disability Studies in Austria. Read our discussion paper from 2019 if you want to know more about the principles of Disability Studies and disability research: https://dista.uniability.org/disability-studies/disability-studies-disability-research/ , or join our upcoming annual “Forschungswerkstatt” for an entire day full of exciting discussions of forthcoming research in the field of Disability Studies in Austria: https://dista.uniability.org/fowe2025/ (in German)
New members are always more than welcome at DiStA. Those interested can get in touch via our website: https://dista.uniability.org/kontakt/
Interview: Johanna Stadlbauer, RCC, 7.4.2025