Migration and mobilities
Exploring the motivations behind human movement patterns
We live in a world characterised by mobility. People travel for migration or tourism, moving permanently or temporarily, individually or with families, by choice or through force. Mobility is something that defines humankind, crucial to our biological and social evolution. Archaeological records show people have moved places for millennia, yet people are also sometimes immobilised, manifested in border controls or social exclusion.
In this research area, we examine patterns of contemporary and historical movement, the reasons behind movement, and the effects of movement, at both the macro and micro levels. We investigate the role of the nation-state in generating belonging and exclusion, how racism and anti-racism is generated and perpetuated, and how mobility is implicated in processes of transformation at the national and global levels. We aim to understand the patterns of, and reasons for, global and local mobility, and provide policy advice on issues of migration, multiculturalism and social inclusion.
Related projects
Our research projects range from studying local and national culture and behaviours, to international studies on human migration and mobility patterns.
We are keen to collaborate on projects relevant to migration and mobilities in the Indo-Pacific region. We offer quantitative and qualitative research skills, and interdisciplinary expertise.
Related research themes
European Language, Culture and Translation Studies
Study French, German, Italian and Spanish language and cultures, and Translation Studies at UWA as a major or complementary to other degrees.
Australian identities across time and space
This research discipline looks at what defines our Australian identity across time and space.
Translation and Transcultural Research
Our Translation and Transcultural Research is about understanding the social and cultural issues of translation and multilingualism, migration, transcultural identity construction and communication.
Scholarship opportunities
There are PhD scholarships associated with three relevant research entities within this sector:
- The Migration Mobilities and Belonging Cluster
- The Africa Research Cluster
- The Centre for Muslim States and Societies
Contact us for more information on scholarships.
Related courses
Funding
We have successfully undertaken research with support from a number of organisations, including:
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History
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School of Social Sciences
The School of Social Sciences looks at understanding the human experience and exploring how and why society works.
Archaeology
Archaeology research at UWA focuses on the scientific study of human life, thoughts and actions through the materials people have left behind.
Anthropology and Sociology
Understanding people and the societies in which they live and work