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About us

Principal Investigator 

My name is Anna Stenning and I am a researcher based in English literature. I identify as neurodivergent and am on a journey to discover what it means in the context of academia. I am a co-founder of the Neurodiversity and Literature Network and have previously taught literature and creative writing at Bath Spa University and the University of Worcester. My first book was Edward Thomas: A Miscellany and I write poetry and creative essays and enjoy drawing. I believe that writing and creative work by neurodivergent people deserves recognition as art in its own right rather than as therapy or effort to 'cure'. However, existing stereotypes about autism contribute to internalised ableism that prevents many autistic people from reaching their creative potential. Life writing and other kinds of stories by neurodivergent folk contribute to better understanding and acceptance of the fact that we are all, collectively, neurodiverse. Many of us are also dis/abled at different points in our life, and I am interested in knowing what the social and natural environment contribute to our 'fitting' or misfitting in different places.

I am also interested in finding out what barriers neurodivergent and autistic students experience in higher education, including at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and finding out how we can make a university the gateway to rewarding work or further study (and self-care) for autistic students. I believe that supporting neurodivergent and disabled staff in higher education - including in our capacity as researchers - will improve the representation of and experiences of disabled students and contribute to our collective knowledge of our interdependence.

Outside of work, I am a keen allotmenteer, a cat enthusiast and an amateur artist and I enjoy cooking for my family. I love reading fiction and listening to rock music.

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss any aspect of my work.

Research Assistant: Julia Ankenbrand 

Julia Ankenbrand is an expert on cultural curation and co-production. She has been a key part of the IAR Festival and has the ability to work under pressure to deliver a smooth online event. Julia is an expert-ally in autistic culture.

Intern: Rebecca Lewis

The Narratives of Neurodiversity Network