Who we are

The Australasian Queer Research Network (AQuRN) is an interdisciplinary network connecting researchers, artists, scholars and practitioners engaged in queer research across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.

Established in July 2025, AQuRN evolved from the LGBTIQA+ Research Network at RMIT University into an independent, cross-institutional network committed to advancing queer scholarship, creative practice and critical inquiry. This transition reflects a growing ambition to build connections across disciplines, institutions and geographical boundaries, creating a space for the exchange of ideas and the development of collaborative research communities.

AQuRN understands queer research as both a field of inquiry and a critical approach to knowledge production. Our interests extend beyond sexuality and gender to consider how queer perspectives can challenge normative assumptions, interrogate structures of power and open possibilities for different ways of thinking, living and relating. We embrace the diversity of queer methodologies, perspectives and experiences, recognising the importance of interdisciplinary dialogue and the contributions of researchers working within and beyond the academy.

Our activities centre on a biennial conference and regular online seminar series, providing opportunities to share new research, engage with contemporary debates and build relationships across our growing network. We are particularly committed to supporting emerging researchers, amplifying marginalised perspectives and fostering a culture of intellectual generosity, curiosity and collaboration.

AQuRN is an open network, without formal membership. Researchers and others interested in queer inquiry are invited to participate in our events and join our mailing list to stay connected.

Executive Committee

Associate Professor Drew Pettifer — President
Drew is an artist, researcher and academic at RMIT University's School of Art whose research explores queer histories, masculinity, desire and the intersections of art, sexuality and social justice.

Associate Professor Emily Gray — Vice President and Secretary
Emily is a feminist scholar of gender, sexuality and education at Monash University whose research examines the experiences of LGBTIQ+ educators and everyday sexism in education, drawing on queer feminist approaches to research, activism and social change.

Thomas Lloyde — Treasurer
Thomas works in wealth management and is completing a Master of Arts and Cultural Management, bringing financial expertise and an interest in arts and cultural practice to the network.

Dr Ampersand (And) Pasley — Executive Committee Member
And is a lecturer and researcher at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, whose work engages with queer theory, trans experiences, education and critical approaches to gender and sexuality.

Contact us

Interested in connecting with AQuRN? Please fill in the below form to contact us and/or sign up to our mailing list.