Deakin Sociology and Social Change Collective
Driving social change through interdisciplinary research and collaboration
How our research drives social change
How does society and its individuals evolve over time and what are the consequences of these changes? Our research at the Deakin Sociology and Social Change Collective aims to answer these questions. Through a diverse and collaborative network of researchers, our research supports projects that tackle inequality, health policies, migration and other pressing issues in Australia and worldwide.
Our research areas
The Deakin School of Humanities and Social Sciences undertakes internationally acclaimed research across various fields. The Deakin Sociology and Social Change Collective focuses on four research streams.
Family, youth and relationships
We examine transformations in family and relationship structures, youth participation and mobility. For each area, we analyse the factors driving social change and their implications for society.
Health sociology
Our research examines current health issues in Australia and globally, focusing on sport and physical activity, the social dimensions of disease, and the impact of health policy on diverse communities. Our research also explores the connections between health, wellbeing, gender and sexuality.
Migration, ethnicity and multiculturalism
Our research centres the experiences of culturally diverse groups, with a focus on identity, belonging, diversity and inclusion across all areas of society.
Sociology of religion and spirituality
We explore the dynamic aspects of religious and spiritual movements, highlighting their transformative effects on society.
Help us drive social change
When you undertake a PhD or postdoctoral research with the Deakin Sociology and Social Change Collective, you'll conduct research that influences social change and informs public policy.
Our researchers
The Deakin Sociology and Social Change Collective has an outstanding record of engagement and impact, led by experts in the field.
Associate Professor Kim Toffoletti is an associate professor of sociology in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, specialising in sociology, gender, media and sport studies. Her recent research focuses on the effects of digital technologies on women's and girls' health and wellbeing.
Dr Kiran Pienaar is a senior lecturer in sociology at the School of Humanities and Social Science, researching the politics of public health, public policy impacts on diverse communities, the social aspects of new medical technologies, and the uneven effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr Zoe Avner, Lecturer in Sport Coaching
Dr Rose Butler, Senior Lecturer, Sociology
Dr Bridgette Desjardins, Associate Teaching Fellow
Dr Jacqui Edwards, Lecturer of Occupational Therapy
Dr David Farrugia, ARC Future Fellow
Dr Vivian Gerrand, Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Associate Professor Jessamy Gleeson, Associate Professor, Writing and Literature
Associate Professor Anna Halafoff, Associate Professor of Sociology
Professor Anita Harris, Deakin Distinguished Professor
Dr Ramon Lopez Castellano, Lecturer in Spanish
Associate Professor Vince Marotta, Associate Professor of Sociology
Associate Professor Maurizio Meloni, Associate Professor of Sociology
Gemma Nourse, Casual Research Fellow
Dr Kiran Pienaar, Senior Lecturer in Sociology
Professor Kate Seear, Professor, Law
Dr Rosie Shorter, Research Fellow Grade 2
Maddison Sideris, Associate Teaching Fellow
Professor Andrew Singleton, Professor of Sociology and Social Research
Dr Kasey Symons, Lecturer in Communication
Associate Professor Kim Toffoletti, Associate Professor of Sociology
Associate Professor Matteo Vergani, Associate Professor
Joshua Waters, Senior Research Fellow
Featured projects
We excel in socially engaged research, consistently delivering high-quality outcomes through partnerships with government, industry and non-profit sectors.
Australian Internet Observatory (AIO)
Associate Professor Matteo Vergani leads Deakin's partnership with the AIO. This project creates an infrastructure to collect and analyse digital social data. This four-year national research initiative will develop tools and capabilities to study online user experiences, algorithms, and interactions. It offers researchers an opportunity to reimagine how to use digital archives, digital data, and big data, which increasingly play a key role in societies.
Youth futures after mobility
Youth Futures after Mobility (YFAM) project is led by Professor Anita Harris (Deakin) and Professor Loretta Baldassar (Edith Cowan). A multi-method longitudinal wave-based study (2020-2030) of transnationally mobile youth and their transitions to adulthood, YFAM investigates what helps and hinders the social and economic integration of young people after living abroad.
Our partnerships
The Deakin Sociology and Social Change Collective thrives on collaboration. Our strong partnerships among members and with other universities enhance our research capacity and outcomes. We mentor HDR students and support staff development, while our members regularly contribute to media, including print, TV, and podcasts.
Our publications
Take an in-depth look at our latest research. For a full list of publications visit the profile pages of our researchers.
Recent publications:
- Let the Dead Speak: Spiritualism in Australia, Andrew Singleton and Matt Tomlinson
- Love Across Class, Rose Butler and Eve Vincent
Contact us
Our team is ready to answer your questions and provide information about the Deakin Sociology and Social Change Collective. Contact our convenors via email.
