معرفی
Birgit Braumüller is a Researcher at the Institute of Sociology and Gender Studies, German Sport University Cologne, specializing in LGBTQ+ issues in sports, gender studies, and media sociology. She holds a PhD from the same institution (2017) and has been a research associate since 2013. Her work bridges academic research with practical applications in sport policy and education.
**Education**
- PhD in Sociology and Gender Studies, German Sport University Cologne (2013–2017)
- Magisterstudium Sportwissenschaft, University of Vienna (2009–2010)
- Bachelor in Sport Science, University of Vienna (2002–2009)
Her research focuses on three core areas:
- Experiences of LGBTQ+ athletes and strategies to combat discrimination in sports
- Gender representation in sports media, including Olympic coverage
- Social media's role in adolescent sport participation and identity formation
Her publications (61 total) and projects (7 active/funded) emphasize intersectional approaches, with recent work addressing homophobia/transphobia in European sports and queer methodologies. She co-leads initiatives like the PLUSS: LGBTIQ+ Policy and Leadership in Sport and Society project (2023–2026).
**Teaching**
- "Wissenschaftliches Projektseminar" in Sport Management & Communication (media representation of athletes)
- "Gender and Diversity in Sport" module, focusing on social inequality and inclusive practices
- Methodology courses (qualitative research, scientific thinking)
**Awards**
- 2023: Post-Doc-Vorlesung in Geistes- und Sozialwissenschaften
- 2015: Interne Hochschulförderung Award for integrating research into teaching
- 2014: Prize for innovative sport marketing strategies
Her work extends to public engagement through media appearances discussing homophobia in sports and social media's dual role in promoting/inhibiting youth sport engagement.
