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Brian Watson
Doctoral Student at the University of British Columbia
Professional Background
Bryan Watson is an accomplished graduate student currently pursuing his Master of Library Science at Indiana University Bloomington. His academic journey is deeply rooted in the fields of Digital Humanities and Archives & Records Management, where he is not only honing his skills but also contributing actively to the Kinsey Institute Library and Special Collections as a graduate assistant. A significant landmark in his career will be his upcoming transition to the University of British Columbia as a PhD student in Library, Archival, and Information Science. His doctoral research is poised to delve into the realms of sexology, knowledge organization, and sexual nomenclature, reflecting his deep-seated interests in historical narratives and their contemporary implications.
Brian's engagement in the academic community extends beyond his studies; he has significantly contributed as a Teaching Assistant at the University of British Columbia, sharing his knowledge and insights with students while refining his pedagogy. His previous positions, including roles such as Project Director for '50 Years On, Many Years Past', Archivist-Historian at the American Psychological Association, and Graduate Research Assistant at Indiana University School of Informatics and Computing, showcase his diverse skill set and his commitment to the field of library and information science.
Education and Achievements
Brian's educational background is as impressive as his career trajectory. He holds a Master of Arts in History and Culture from Drew University, where he cultivated his interest in the history of sexuality and literature. His undergraduate studies culminated in a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Keene State College, where he graduated with a remarkable GPA of 3.8, distinguishing himself early in his academic career.
In addition to his MLIS, Brian's scholarly contributions include his first book, Annals of Pornographie: How Porn Became Bad, which explores the historical context of obscenity from 1450-1950 and enjoyed considerable media attention, including a feature on Conan O'Brien's show. His forthcoming book promises to continue this exploration, examining the portrayals of sexuality and pornography in contemporary popular media, further establishing him as an authority in these interdisciplinary fields.
Professional Experience
Brian's comprehensive range of positions has equipped him with a multifaceted skill set that encompasses various aspects of library science, archival work, and historical research. His tenure as an Archivist-Historian for the American Psychological Association presents a remarkable opportunity for Brian, enabling him to contribute valuable insights that shape our understanding of psychology and its historical context.
As a Graduate Research Assistant at Indiana University's School of Informatics and Computing, Bryan developed essential research skills critical to the advancement of information science while playing a crucial role as a collaborator on various projects. While working as an Archives Assistant at the Kinsey Institute, he immersed himself in the rich archives of sexuality research, an experience that dovetails with his academic focus.
Moreover, Bryan's experience in scholarly communication via Open Access Graduate Assistantship at Indiana University Bloomington highlights his commitment to the dissemination of knowledge and information accessibility. Work experience as a cataloger/researcher at Noblespirit LLC further emphasizes his meticulous approach to research and information organization.
Community Involvement
Brian has distinguished himself outside of his academic endeavors, notably through roles in organizational leadership and community engagement. Serving as the President (Archon) of Psi Upsilon, he demonstrated his leadership capabilities while fostering community spirit and collaboration in academic environments. His volunteer work with 'Obama for America' reflects his broader commitment to civic engagement, suggesting a well-rounded individual who thrives on making a positive impact both academically and socially.
With a wealth of experience, an impressive educational background, and a passion for empowering others through knowledge management and archival preservation, Brian Watson is a dynamic and promising scholar in the field of library and information science. His trajectory is not only characterized by dedication and perseverance but also a profound understanding of the interplay between historical narratives and contemporary issues relating to sexuality, pornography, and cultural representation.