Aims of the Horror Studies Special Interest Group
The purpose and aims of the Horror Studies SIG include:
- To explore connections and approaches across the study of horror film, television and other screen media, and to foster a network of postgraduate, early career and established researchers working in the field in the UK and Ireland.
- To facilitate connection and discussion between members, and to encourage collaboration on projects which contribute to the culture of/help to shape the field (e.g. publications, conferences and events, major projects and funding bids as well as informal activities such as reading/screening groups).
- To represent researchers conducting scholarship and research on horror in the UK and Ireland, and to promote and support equality, diversity and inclusivity within this horror studies community.
- To promote the wide range of work published on horror by scholars based in the UK and Ireland (e.g. by supporting or organising book launches, research seminars, conferences and other events, and by arranging panels for the BAFTSS annual conference).
- To form and maintain regular channels of communication (e.g. through dedicated social media accounts and a bi-monthly bulletin promoting publications, call for papers, conferences and events).
- To support the PGR and ECR community through informal guidance and mentorship, organising and/or promoting training and networking events, exploring opportunities for collaborative doctoral awards, and applying for BAFTSS funding to support PGR and ECR initiatives or bursaries where available (e.g. conference travel).
- To facilitate discussions about horror studies pedagogy at HE level (where the topic is ever-popular with students).
- To identify and connect with colleagues working in practice-based horror research.
- To forge and maintain links with other related SIGs within BAFTSS (e.g. East Asian Screen Cultures, LGBTQ+ Screen Studies, Screening Sex, Transnational Film and TV), recognising their intradisciplinary connection with Horror Studies and the potential for collaboration.
- To build new (and nurture existing) relationships between members and relevant parties outside of BAFTSS – both within academia (e.g. publishers, journals, events, international organisations) and beyond (e.g. festivals, cinemas, public-facing groups and institutions, and contacts in the screen industries), with a view to developing the wider reputation and impact of horror scholarship.