UEL academic joins Academy of Social Sciences

Professor Doná has built an international reputation over the last 30 years in the field of forced migration studies and has been instrumental in making the study of refugees a central feature of inquiry in the social sciences. 

She has co-founded international working groups and co-edited the Journal of Refugee Studies. Her career includes keynote speeches at international conferences, ground-breaking research on Rwanda and child migration, and advisory roles for governments and UN agencies, notably advising the British government on integrating social science into government policies.

Her media engagement with outlets such as Sky News and Al-Jazeera has also helped expand the influence of the social sciences more widely.

Professor Doná, from the School of Education and Communities, said, "I am deeply honoured to be elected to the Fellowship of the Academy of Social Sciences. This accolade recognises the importance of my work in investigating key issues of our times both in academia and in policy, practice and public engagement. It also highlights the important contribution that the Centre for Migration, Refugees and Belonging makes at a time when the issue of migration and asylum is so important and often misunderstood.

"Our mission with the CMRB focuses on building bridges of knowledge and understanding surrounding migration, refugees, and the concept of belonging. It creates an inclusive space where academics, practitioners, activists, migrants, and refugees come together to explore innovative solutions and inspire positive societal change. 

"This recognition reaffirms our commitment to these critical issues, and I look forward to continuing this vital work alongside my colleagues and partners."

The academy showcases, champions and advocates for the social sciences in the UK, raising awareness of their value for the benefit of the public. The president of the academy, journalist and writer Will Hutton, announced the latest cohort of new fellows from across the globe on 2 October. 

He said, "It’s a pleasure to welcome 47 leading social scientists to the academy's Fellowship. Throughout their careers so far, they have furthered our understanding, and made practical contributions, in a range of areas. 

"I look forward to meeting and working with them to further promote the importance of the social sciences."