Sylvia Mieszkowski

Sylvia Mieszkowski is a Full Professor of British Literature at the Department of English and American Studies, Faculty of Philological and Cultural Studies, University of Vienna. She currently serves as Deputy Head of Study Programme and is actively involved in multiple research platforms including GAIN (Gender: Ambivalent In_Visibilities) where she serves as Deputy Head. Her international academic career spans institutions across Europe including positions at Goethe University Frankfurt, Amsterdam University College, Humboldt University Berlin, and the American University of Paris.

Education:

• Habilitation at Goethe University Frankfurt (2011)
• Doctorate at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (2003)
• Magistra Artium at Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (1997)
• Year abroad at University of St. Andrews (1993/94)

Professor Mieszkowski's research centers on British literature with particular focus on 19th and 20th century literature, neo-Victorian narratives, gender studies, queer theory, and refugee tales. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges literary analysis with cultural theory, sound studies, and critical gender studies. She explores how literature engages with social, political and ideological contexts, particularly examining issues of visibility, representation, and marginalization.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a sustained engagement with themes of visibility/invisibility, particularly regarding gendered experiences and refugee narratives. Her work demonstrates a methodological commitment to intersectional analysis, connecting literary form with social critique. The publications show increasing focus on contemporary adaptations of Victorian literature, refugee narratives, and the politics of representation in media and culture.

Professor Mieszkowski actively mentors graduate students and has organized the 'PhD Abroad' workshop to support MA students pursuing doctoral studies internationally. She serves as co-editor for two book series: 'Dutch Quarterly Review' (Brill Rodopi) and 'Literatur - Theater - Medien' (Lit-Verlag), demonstrating her commitment to scholarly communication.

She leads significant research initiatives including the Research Platform GAIN (Gender: Ambivalent In_Visibilities) and participates in the Research Platform SOLE (The Stress of Life). Her departmental leadership includes previous roles as Head of Department (2020-22) and ongoing service as Deputy Head of Study Programme. She has organized notable academic events including the 'Victorian Resurrections' international conference (2022) and poetry readings featuring prominent writers such as David Herd and Eiléan Ní Chuilleanáin.