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The Unconventional Journey of Benjamin Geer
Alt-academic careers, characterized by their unconventional routes within or alongside the academy, showcase unique blends of expertise and interest. Benjamin Geer's trajectory is no exception.
Previously a successful software developer in London, Benjamin Geer bravely shifted gears to delve deeper into the humanities. His pursuit of Arabic and a PhD in Middle East Studies led him on a transcontinental academic path, spanning a visiting assistant professorship in Egypt and a post-doc in Singapore.
Transitioning Out of Traditional Academia
After years of fruitless academic job hunting and a longing for stability, especially for his growing family, Geer contemplated a return to software development. Yet, he faced the daunting task of refreshing skills that had lain dormant. The digital humanities field, however, offered a beacon of hope for harmonizing his dual interests in programming and humanities.
A Place to Call Home at the Digital Humanities Lab
Fortune smiled upon Geer when he discovered an opening at the University of Basel's Digital Humanities Lab — a place where he could deftly apply his comprehensive skill set. The team at Basel welcomed him, illustrating a stark contrast to the rigors of academic applications. His new role promised a balanced schedule with ample time for personal research, an invaluable gain for an academic at heart.
The Perks of Flexibility
Benjamin's post-doctoral position at Basel granted him the flexibility to blend work and personal life seamlessly. Working partly from home fostered an equilibrium that transcended his previous experiences in academia, where overextended work hours and the pain of constant relocation overshadowed the pursuit of knowledge.
Autonomy and Academic Freedom
Although mourning the loss of a conventional academic career, Geer found solace in his newfound academic autonomy. Free from the publish-or-perish treadmill, he embraced the opportunity to follow his research passions without external pressures — a luxury often unattainable in traditional roles.