Joe Ellis

Joe Ellis is an Affiliated Lecturer in the Department of Social Anthropology at the University of Cambridge, with additional roles as Deputy Senior Tutor (Teaching and Outreach) at Hughes Hall, Director of Studies for Social Anthropology at Gonville & Caius College and Hughes Hall, and Course Director at the Institute of Continuing Education.

His academic background includes a BSc in Anthropology from University College London (2009), followed by an MRes degree, and a PhD in Social Anthropology from Cambridge (2013) based on two years of ethnographic fieldwork in Mongolia. He began his studies as a mature student and has taught anthropology and social theory extensively throughout his academic career.

Dr Ellis's research focuses on Social Anthropology with regional specialization in Mongolia and Central Asia, employing ethnographic methods to examine cultural practices, social structures, and theoretical frameworks. His work bridges field-based observation with broader anthropological theory, particularly regarding post-socialist societies and cultural resilience in Central Asian contexts.

As Director of Studies at two colleges, he provides comprehensive academic guidance and pastoral support to undergraduate students. His Deputy Senior Tutor role at Hughes Hall involves strategic oversight of teaching quality and outreach initiatives across the collegiate university system.