Rebecca Finkel

Professor Rebecca Finkel holds the position of Professor of Critical Event Studies in the Media, Communication and Performing Arts Division at Queen Margaret University (QMU). She leads the Research Centre for Communication, Cultural and Media Studies and co-directs the Gastronomy, Events, Tourism & Hospitality Research Group. Her work focuses on critical event studies, cultural identity, gender equality, and social inclusion, employing interdisciplinary approaches to address societal challenges. Finkel is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, emphasizing equity in education through her teaching and research.

Education

• PhD
• MA (Merit)
• BA (Hons)

Research Interests

Her research explores themes such as gender performativity in rodeo culture, the impact of digitalization on film festivals, and accessibility in event spaces. She has pioneered post-humanist analyses of human-animal interactions and conducted critical studies on gendered violence at festivals. Finkel’s qualitative methods include ethnography, participatory research, and visual analysis.

Funded Projects

• Current SFC-funded project on film festivals and digitalization post-COVID
• RSE Saltire Award for 'Place-Specific Approaches to Sustainable Prosperity'
• Police Scotland consultation on festival safety perceptions

Awards & Recognition

• QMU STaR Best Research Supervisor Award
• Engaging & Inspiring Teaching Award
• Best Paper in Research in Teaching and Learning (CHME)

Teaching & Leadership

Finkel created modules for the BA Events Management and MA Arts Festivals programs. She has supervised numerous PhD students and examined doctoral work internationally. Her innovative teaching methods include digital tools for employability and accessible assessment design.