Dr Dimitris Asimakoulas, University of Surrey
Dimitris completed his PhD in 2005, a study of the translation of Brecht during the Greek junta (1967-1974). He holds a lectureship in translation studies at the University of Surrey
I decided to pursue a postdoctoral research degree in Manchester because it featured prominently as an internationally renowned educational institution. Seminars and various CTIS events offered a stimulating environment that complemented specialised research and boosted my creativity. The range of subjects that staff and other doctoral peers covered were exceptionally appealing to me: from cross-cultural communication and linguistics to corpus studies and sociological issues in translation. This is perhaps linked to the most memorable aspect of my doctoral degree, that is, freedom to independently explore novel ideas and to develop as an intellectually curious young researcher. At the same time, having had the opportunity to work with supervisors who were experienced in translation studies(-related) research gave me a sense of direction/security in my own work as well as critical thinking skills.
Almost immediately after I obtained my PhD degree I secured a research fellow post in another university, which quickly lead to a full-time lectureship in translation studies. The expertise acquired in CTIS still helps me with my everyday academic work. Last but not least, CTIS was the place where I made wonderful friends from around the world (conspiratorially referred to as 'the CTIS gang' among my batch); I hold them all dear and plan common research papers or visits that keep me in touch with them.
