Zoe Bell

Dr Zoe Bell is a Research Fellow in the Department of International Relations at The Australian National University (ANU). Her work focuses on refugee protection, statelessness, and the experiences of marginalized communities such as the Rohingya. She holds a PhD in Social Sciences from the University of New South Wales (UNSW), a Master of Human Rights Law and Policy, and a Social Work Honours degree.

Education:

• PhD in Social Sciences (2018–2023), UNSW – Thesis: "Experiences of Statelessness and Refugee Protection: Exploring the 'Rohingya life' in Sydney, Australia"
• Master of Human Rights Law and Policy (2014–2015), UNSW
• Honours in Social Work (2009–2010), UNSW – Thesis: "Exploring the impact of housing on refugee women from Africa in Australia"
• Bachelor of Social Work (2006–2010), UNSW

Research Interests: Dr Bell’s work examines the intersection of statelessness, refugee rights, and gender-based violence. She has conducted extensive research on Rohingya communities in Australia and the socio-economic challenges faced by refugee women, particularly regarding housing and safety. Her contributions bridge academic scholarship with practical advocacy.

Affiliations:

• Research Fellow, Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence against Women (2024–present)
• Associate, UNSW (2023–present)
• Voluntary Operations Manager, Australian Rohingya Women's Development Organisation (2021–present)
• Co-Chair, Forced Migration Research Students Network (2020–2024)
• Member, Global PhDs on Statelessness (2019–present)

Advocacy & Grants: Dr Bell combines academic research with community engagement, particularly through her voluntary roles. She is registered to supervise research students in areas related to migration, human rights, and social work.

Labs/Teams: Active in the Forced Migration Research Students Network and the Centre of Excellence for the Elimination of Violence against Women, focusing on interdisciplinary collaborations.