Sofia Chanda-Gool

Dr. Sofia Chanda-Gool is a Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, part of the School of Advanced Study at the University of London. Her fellowship term runs from February 1, 2019 to July 31, 2026. She holds qualifications including a PhD from the University of Bath (awarded with bursary in 2003), a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice from Plymouth University (2015), a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling in Organisations from Bristol University (2007), and a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from the Open University (1995).

Her educational background includes:

• PhD with University of Bath (awarded bursary) 2003
• Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice 2015 at Plymouth University
• Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling in Organisations with Bristol University 2007, BACP accredited 2009
• MEd – Full Research with Queensland University of Technology
• BSc (Hons) Psychology 2:1 with Open University 1995

Dr. Chanda-Gool's research focuses on cultural, social, and political contexts with particular emphasis on Indigenous Australians and Global South communities, contrasting these with British colonialism and influence. Her work explores the psychological dimensions of colonialism, examining the challenges faced by minoritized people in the global south. She has developed expertise in cross-cultural contexts, drawing insights from Indigenous Australian and South Asian communities to critique Western individualistic culture and promote collective approaches to learning and community building.

Her publication history demonstrates consistent thematic focus across decades, with recent works addressing refugee mental health and group dynamics in education, while earlier works focus on Aboriginal communities in Australia. Her research employs an emancipatory, ethnographic approach that prioritizes community voices while examining power imbalances, colonial legacies, and pathways toward cultural preservation and social justice.

Dr. Chanda-Gool has been coordinating collaborative research projects with institutions including the University of London, University of Queensland, and Australian National University, focusing on Indigenous rights in Australia with specific attention to the incarceration of Indigenous mothers and its community impacts. Her current archival research examines Britain's involvement in the colonization of Australia and its implications for contemporary Indigenous experiences.