TASA Thematic Group on Applied Sociology
Aims and objectives:
The Applied Sociology Thematic Group aims to create a supportive network for applied social researchers working in non-academic positions, and to increase visibility of their research projects, activities and achievements. Applied sociologists are employed in diverse contexts, including (but not limited to): consultancy and private industry, government and non-government organisations, and other contract work. Applied sociology has a focus on practical applications of sociological knowledge with a view to providing improved outcomes for different groups of people. This research is often conducted within a multidisciplinary environment and in collaboration with different organisations, including community services, activist groups and universities. Members are involved in dynamic research projects, including policy development, community advocacy, project management, and social welfare.
The Applied Sociology Thematic Group is committed to enhancing understanding of the challenges that their members face in their everyday working environments and in negotiating their career trajectories. The Group's objectives are:
- To raise the public profile of applied sociological research within TASA, academia and the wider public
- To support sociology graduates and to develop an agenda for career opportunities outside of academia
- To provide a basis for streams on applied sociology at TASA conferences
- To organise workshops, seminars, conferences, lectures and other research activities on topics related to applied sociological research, with a sensitivity to the funding, geographic and time constraints of members' working lives
- To encourage publications that address the issues encountered by sociologists working outside academia
- To nurture relationships with other interdisciplinary groups and organisations
Year established:
2007
Convenors and contact details:
Dr Zuleyka Zevallos
Social Scientist
Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO)
C3I, 205 Lab, 2.H.04, PO Box 1500, Edinburgh, SA 5111, Australia
Ph: +61 (0) 8 8259 5733
Zuleyka.Zevallos@dsto.defence.gov.au
Dr Christine Walker
CEO
Chronic Illness Alliance
818 Burke Road, Camberwell VIC 312
Ph: +61 (0) 3 9805 9126
christine@chronicillness.org.au
Members:
- Dr Joy Adams-Jackson, Mental Health Clinician, Bowral Community Mental Health service
- Dr Jan Ali, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Centre for Research on Social Inclusion
- Sue Anderson
- Thierrys Barlaen, Out Reach Managing Director, Perth Mobile Gp Services
- Clive Begg
- Dr Anna Bennett
- Alex Blaelock
- Michael Bleasdale
- Anne Bosio
- Kate Brooks
- Jo-Ann Brown, Research Officer, Alzheimer's Australia NSW
- Scott Burrows
- Karina Butera
- Aaron Jen Kong Chong
- Toby Fattore
- Anthony Hogan
- Emma Jakku
- Roberta Julian
- Rose Leontini, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney
- Lucy Nelms, Research Analyst, Australian Fair Pay Commission Secretariat
- Susan Pitt
- Peter Sainsbury, Director, Population Health, Sydney South West Area Health Service
- Marie Shepherd
- Dr Stephen Smith
- Dr Christine Walker, Chronic Illness Alliance Inc
- Dr Zuleyka Zevallos, Social Scientist, Defence Science and Technology Organisation