Emily Dunford
Research Executive

Emily specialises in qualitative research in the arts and the cultural sector. She has skills in interviewing, data analysis, workshop facilitation, and thinking laterally.

She is currently undertaking a PhD in the Theatre and Performance Studies department at the University of Warwick, focusing on Coventry’s tenure as UK City of Culture 2021. Her research explores Coventry-based cultural workers’ experiences of the year of culture, drawing upon data from a longitudinal interview process and observation. Prior to starting her PhD, Emily worked at Warwick Students’ Union and the University of Warwick and has special interests in higher education policy, pedagogic development, and artist-researcher crossover and collaboration.

Outside of work, Emily spends a lot of time on theatre, cultural and foodie activities, though the majority of her time is probably spent doting on her beloved cat, Lucky, and boisterous kitten Bernard.

A funny joke you recently heard?

I went to Tesco the other day and swapped 50 raisins for 100 sultanas. That’s the currant exchange rate

I’m obsessed with… 

weirdly abstract humour

In my spare time I…

go to the theatre, make crafts and baked goods, play board games and video games, and take walks

What three things would you never leave the house without?

double checking my bag for everything I need, searching the weather forecast, and giving the cat a kiss goodbye

What are you currently reading?

I change book every week, but I’ve recently finished reading Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid

What film/book (s) has influenced you the most?

Can I add theatre? If yes, then Pentabus’s For Once