Fellowship by the Social Sciences Research Council: Librarian Brian Vivier |
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January 29, 2013,
Volume 59, No. 19 |
Chinese studies librarian Brian Vivier has been awarded a postdoctoral fellowship by the Social Sciences Research Council (SSRC) for the academic year 2012-2013. Dr. Vivier is one of ten scholars nationwide to be awarded this highly competitive fellowship, which is part of the SSRC’s program on transregional research entitled, “Inter-Asian Contexts and Connections.” The program supports junior scholars whose projects strive to re-conceptualize parts of Asia across traditionally accepted regional and country boundaries. The SSRC grant will fund Dr. Vivier’s research, including his fieldwork in mainland China and Taiwan.
Dr. Vivier, a historian of medieval China, joined Penn Libraries in August 2011 (Almanac September 27, 2011) and is responsible for Penn’s Chinese Collection and research support in the field of Chinese studies. Dr. Vivier’s research demonstrates the role of foreign trade and broader regional contacts in the unprecedented economic growth that occurred in China between the 10th and 13th centuries, and with the SSRC’s support, Dr. Vivier will refine and broaden his doctoral dissertation on the subject in preparation for publication.
“Vivier’s receipt of the SSRC fellowship is an important recognition of the Libraries’ commitment to cultivating expert subject and area studies librarians to support teaching, research, and learning at Penn,” observed Carton Rogers, vice provost and director of penn libraries. “His interdisciplinary and border-crossing research and writing contribute to more robust connections and partnerships with scholars here and overseas, thereby advancing Penn’s commitment to academic excellence, interdisciplinary knowledge, and global engagement.”
“In addition to furthering the close connections between the libraries and scholars across campus,” Mr. Rogers noted, “the professional development and fieldwork made possible by this research opportunity will enhance support for Chinese studies on campus and facilitate the development of high-quality collections in this area.” |