Research Assistant: The Power of Imagination

Introduction to the topic

Creativity is not a luxury, it is a necessity, both on a personal and global scale. It positions individuals as standout contributors to any innovative projects, acting as intentional catalysts for transformation and as responsive agents of change. The components that define a creative mindset are core competencies and rank the most sought-after skills in today’s world. These skills are vital across entrepreneurship, scientific discovery, artistic expression, leadership, and for addressing pressing global challenges like climate change, conflict resolution, and educational inequity.

By unleashing imagination, embracing bold questions, and fostering a sense of ‘world-wonder,’ we open pathways into uncharted territories. From these vantage points, we can ignite visionary ideas that tackle complexity and inspire transformative solutions. This journey, powered by curiosity and an openness to possibilities, aims to cultivate pioneers for the future—individuals who will lead the breakthroughs required for a thriving, high-level creative society, while also realizing humanity’s fullest potential. If we want a better future, we must first imagine it.

Project details

This research project is dedicated to designing a framework and training program focused on cultivating a creative mindset. It aims to establish a solid foundation of insights into the skills, perspectives and approaches that are associated with this forward-thinking mindset and way of being.

In this research project, in-depth literature reviews on ‘curiosity’ and ‘the art of questioning’ will establish a foundation for understanding and guiding research directions. Reflective analysis will uncover insights into developing a creative mindset, define key research questions, and compile a shared literature repository. Research Assistants (RAs) will engage in reflective discussions leading to the formulation of interview questions and surveys, as well as the identification of target groups. Pilot studies will test methodologies and inform larger-scale investigations.

The research project spans multiple years, with each year segmented into distinct research tasks distributed across semesters. This structured approach ensures that all RAs receive comprehensive exposure to the topic area and develop research skills tailored to each semester’s tasks

Research Assistantship Hours

You will spend 180 hours directly engaged in research, together with 20 hours in co-curricular activities, during your RAship.

Field Studies: Culture & Language

As a co-curricular complement to your summer research, you will meet every Wednesday, together with faculty from the DIS European Humanities program, for a 6-week introduction to culture and language in Copenhagen.

Mangnus, A. C., Oomen, J., Vervoort, J. M., & Hajer, M. A. (2021). Futures literacy and the diversity of the future. Futures, 132, 102793. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.futures.2021.102793
Immordino-Yang, M. H. (2016). Emotions, learning, and the brain: Exploring the educational implications of affective neuroscience (First edition). W.W. Norton & Company. Abstract here
Futures Literacy | UNESCO. (n.d.). https://www.unesco.org/en/futures-literacy

Recommended experience

We actively seek a diverse cohort of Research Assistants (RAs), each bringing unique backgrounds, experiences, and interests to the table. Successful applicants must embody extraordinary curiosity, and exceptional motivation, challenging the status quo. We are looking for individuals who are comfortable with ‘not knowing’, who strive to push the boundaries of what is conceivable and imaginable, and who are committed to adopting a ‘what if’ approach to the research, both in theory and in practice.

Additional application required

You will need to submit an additional research application through the Student Registration in order to enroll in this course.

Before you submit your research application, you must already be admitted to DIS.

All application materials must be submitted by 23:59 Central European Time on March 15.

Complete your application through Student Registration.

If you are not already enrolled, use this link to apply to DIS before completing your research application.

Faculty

Mette Frandsen

Faculty

BA in Photojournalism, Danish School of Media and Journalism. Fatamorgana, Danish School of Documentary and Art Photography. Teaches at workshops, lectures on projects, and works around the world. With DIS since 2015.

More information about your Research Assistantship

Learn more about the Labs, Research, and Practicums Summer Session.

: Earning authorship within the course of a semester is challenging. Exceptional Research Assistants may be considered for co-authorship, subject to evaluation from the supervising Research Mentor.

Though you may not ultimately become an author on a published paper, you will gain many practical skills and insights into the publication process.

: Many research projects last across several semesters and various points of the research process, so not all Research Assistants on the same project will conduct the same research.

: This varies from project to project, but work generally takes place outside of DIS in labs in located throughout Copenhagen or Stockholm.

: Summer Research Assistantships are designed for highly motivated students who have a strong background within the field of interest and some basic research experience, as you will spend much of your summer session

engaging in hands-on research in universities and medical institutes in Copenhagen or Stockholm.

Introduction to the topic

Project details

View selected research publications

Additional application required

Faculty

Mette Frandsen

More information about your Research Assistantship

Will I publish a research paper?

What part of the research process will I assist with?

Where is the research work carried out?

What type of student applies for a Research Assistantship?