Community building and Scholarly Growth

Coming to IIAS after two years of postdoctoral research in Leiden, I thought I already knew the institution. Yet being part of its vibrant community has refreshed my perspective and inspired new ways of thinking. It is not only the events and discussions that make the experience so enriching, but also the curation of the fellowship itself, which makes participation feel truly nourishing.

I appreciate how IIAS serves as a place of convergence—open, dynamic, and generous in its intellectual atmosphere. Its commitment to fostering dialogue across disciplines and regions creates a space where ideas thrive and boundaries dissolve. At IIAS, I learned not only to share knowledge that one can read from a paper, but also the unique stories each of us brings, which the institute weaves into a larger collective conversation.

Although we felt a touch of nostalgia leaving the old building by the canal, the recently renovated Herta Mohr building proved warm and welcoming. A typical writing day began with brewing a cup of tea to bring to the office. Around midday, I shared lunch with colleagues, often accompanied by treats brought back by those returning from their travels or for small celebrations. In the afternoon, I sometimes took a stroll through the botanical garden when the weather was pleasant. With the library just next door, I could easily collect the books I needed.

There are also many other academic opportunities. For instance, I joined the program with the Fondation Maison des Sciences de l'Homme, as part of their institutional partnership with IIAS, which enabled a two-month research stay in Paris for archival work and to expand my networks. Immersing myself in Parisian archives while connecting with scholars from different backgrounds opened unexpected pathways for my research. Visiting partner institutions and engaging with scholars beyond my own field has reshaped my understanding of what meaningful research can be.

When the fellowship came to an end and we said our goodbyes, each of us carried a part of IIAS's spirit to our next destination. I hope the institute will always remain a home we can return to, a place where friendships, curiosity, and inspiration continue to grow.

Zhengfeng Wang, Research Fellow at IIAS (2024–2025)
Historian of the built environment, currently a postdoctoral researcher at Paderborn University, working on the ERC Synergy Grant project "Cultures of the Cryosphere: Infrastructures, Politics and Futures of Artificial Cooling."