Queen Mary academic Dr Jaswinder Blackwell-Pal announced by BBC and AHRC as ‘New Generation Thinker’

Every year, a nationwide search is held for the best new arts and humanities academics with ideas that will resonate with a wider audience on BBC radio. From hundreds of applications, these ten New Generation Thinkers represent some of the best early career researchers in the country. They will be given the opportunity to share their pioneering research with BBC Radio 4 listeners, as well as being provided with unique access to training and support from AHRC and the BBC.

The 2024 New Generation Thinkers will bring new insights into diverse topics, with research including the possible existence of the multiverse, the surprisingly dark history of Technicolor film, and the search for the greatest philosopher who never existed.

Dr Jaswinder Blackwell-Pal’s work, titled “Serving the Self: Performance at Work," delves into the pervasive nature of performance in contemporary workplaces. From the hospitality sector to corporate environments, Dr Blackwell-Pal explores how individuals are compelled to present specific feelings, characteristics, or behaviours as part of their professional roles. Drawing on her expertise in performance studies and actor training, she combines theoretical insights with firsthand accounts from managers, customers, and employees to dissect why modern work often feels like an act.

Dr Blackwell-Pal's interdisciplinary approach offers fresh insights into the complexities of modern-day employment, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between individuals, organisations, and societal expectations. Her research has been published in reputable journals such as Platform and The Journal of Dramatic Theory and Criticism, as well as in Bloomsbury's esteemed History of Emotions series.

Commenting on the announcement Dr Blackwell-Pal said: “Being named a New Generation Thinker is both an honour and an invaluable opportunity to bring my research to a wider audience via the BBC. It underscores the significance of bridging academic scholarship with public engagement, and I am hugely excited to be part of igniting conversations about the ever-evolving landscape of work and performance in today's society.”

Dr. Blackwell-Pal's achievement not only reflects her scholarly prowess but also underscores the vital role of the arts and humanities in fostering deeper understanding and dialogue on pressing societal issues. As she embarks on this exciting journey as a New Generation Thinker, her work promises to resonate with audiences far beyond the confines of academia, shaping public discourse and perceptions on the intricacies of modern-day employment.

With her selection as a New Generation Thinker, Dr. Jaswinder Blackwell-Pal stands as a beacon of intellectual curiosity and innovation, poised to make a lasting impact on both academia and society at large.

The names of the ten researchers were announced as part of a New Thinking episode of the Arts & Ideas podcast hosted by former New Generation Thinker Eleanor Rosamund Barraclough.

Professor Christopher Smith, AHRC Executive Chair said: “The New Generation Thinkers programme brings interesting, important ideas into the public consciousness, shaping thought and discussion.

“From fundamental questions about the nature of reality to how political propagandists harnessed the seductive power of Technicolor, and the impact of imprisonment on mothers and children, and the most challenging problems of our day, these are ideas of thrilling originality and importance.

“These ten brilliant, original thinkers demonstrate the ability of the arts and humanities to help us to better understand both ourselves and the world around us.”

Matthew Dodd, Commissioning Editor, Arts, BBC Radio 3 and 4, said: “We’re looking forward to working with ten of the most promising early-career academics. Each year the New Generation Thinker scheme brings radio production teams a wave of stimulating and thought-provoking contributors who have a passion for public engagement. After over a decade of successful partnership with BBC Radio 3, it’s great to be bringing their ideas to a new home of listeners on BBC Radio 4, the biggest speech radio station in the UK, where they’ll find a wide audience.”