Tenth Trowel of Christmas
For the Tenth Trowel of Christmas we chatted with two of our newest members of staff: Dr Xuizhen Li (Departmenal Lecturer in Chinese Archaeology) and Dr Amy Styring (Associate Professor of Archaeological Science).
Dr Xiuzhen Li
Q. What has been a highlight of your move to Oxford?
Walking in Port Meadow on a sunny day!
Q. Can you tell us what you've enjoyed most in your teaching here so far?
I enjoyed the students' quick response to my teaching and their active involvement with critical ideas in the class discussions.
Q. What question are you researching right now?
Lead bricks for the Qin First Emperor's acrobats: entertaining function and metallurgical features.
Q. What are you looking forward to doing in Oxford next year?
In addition to teaching and tutoring in Chinese Archaeology and the Archaeology of Eurasia, I am thinking about some exciting projects inspired by Oxford colleagues and about early Imperial China.
Dr Amy Styring
Q. What has been a highlight of your move to Oxford?
Joining the Walton Well Wanderers running group and having the opportunity to explore Oxford and its surroundings.
Q. Can you tell us what you've enjoyed most in your teaching here so far?
It’s not quite teaching, but I’ve learnt what sub fusc is and I’m just about getting my head around who is supposed to wear what sort of gown.
Q. What question are you researching right now?
I’m putting together a project to learn more about how people used woodlands in prehistory in southern Sweden.
Q. What are you looking forward to doing in Oxford next year?
I’m looking forward to seeing the first Master’s students I’ve taught completing their practical projects and graduating.
