Nicolas Adell

Nicolas Adell is a University Professor of Anthropology at the University of Toulouse - Jean Jaurès, affiliated with the Interdisciplinary Laboratory for Solidarity, Societies, Territories (LISST). His work spans across multiple institutions including the Committee for Historical and Scientific Works (CTHS) and the Heritage: Culture(s), Patrimoine(s), Création(s) research unit.

Adell's research focuses on the anthropology of knowledge, heritage, reflexivities, and scholarly life. He has made significant contributions to the critical analysis of intangible cultural heritage and has explored the construction of collective and individual identities through his ethnographic work. His methodology combines rigorous fieldwork with theoretical innovation, particularly in understanding knowledge transmission processes in various social contexts.

His recent publications reveal a trajectory moving from studies of initiatory craft communities (notably his 2008 work on French journeymen) toward a broader anthropology of reflexivities in contemporary society. The publications demonstrate increasing interdisciplinary engagement, connecting anthropology with literary studies, art history, and science studies. His work on scholarly life (2022) represents a significant contribution to understanding the biographical dimensions of knowledge production.

As a research leader, Adell currently coordinates the ANR program 'Heritage Online Publications' (2024-2028) and previously directed the editorial staff of the journal 'Ethnologie française' from 2017 to 2022. He serves on the editorial boards of multiple journals and directs the 'Heritage' collection at Presses Universitaires du Midi.

His academic activities extend to directing research teams, supervising doctoral students, and participating in international scholarly networks. His work bridges theoretical innovation with practical applications in cultural heritage management and educational contexts.