About Dr. Nathan Keates
I am a Lecturer, a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and a dedicated advocate for the advancement of neurodivergent voices in research within the social sciences. I bridge the gap between academic theory and lived experience. My primary areas of interest include disability and neurodiversity-affirming practices, critical neurodiversity/autism studies, the intersections of mental health and social justice, alongside the less obvious connected interests in theatre and comedy, and organisational culture.
I have forged forward with approaches to research that centre the voices of the neurodivergent community, ensuring that methodology is not just inclusive, but driven by the community it seeks to serve. My work focuses on dismantling traditional barriers to participation by employing co-productive frameworks and participatory action research, and creative methods in collection and dissemination. This model ensures that research is a collaborative journey where neurodivergent individuals are partners in the design, execution, and dissemination of knowledge, directly influencing the services and policies that impact their lives. I intentionally weave interdisciplinary research into my professional practice. My goal is to foster academic and professional environments that are truly accessible, transparent, and celebratory of all forms of diversity.
Research
My research is in the field of Critical Neurodiversity/Autism Studies, which focuses on the intersection of neurodiversity, mental health, and the arts. I am particularly recognised for my research on the benefits of improvisational comedy (improv) for autistic adults, investigating the potential of alleviating social anxiety and reducing feelings of uncertainty. Beyond the performing arts, my research interests extend into the sociopolitical dimensions of disability. I have conducted significant studies on language preferences within the community, advocating for identity-first language (IFL) and critiquing the use of functioning labels as stigmatising. My broader academic contributions also address epistemic injustice and the mental distress caused by "neuro-normative" societal expectations. Overall, my work is characterised by a commitment to participatory research that challenges neuronormative and pathologising discourse and seeks to improve well-being through inclusive social practices.
Publications
See all of Dr. Nathan Keates's publicationsAreas of expertise
Dr Nathan Keates, based at the London campus, is currently open to supervising doctoral research. He invites candidates who are interested in exploring various aspects of mental health/distress and well-being, particularly concerning neurodivergent and autistic individuals. This area of study aims to address the experiences faced by these communities. In addition, Dr Keates is also focused on the intersection of dementia care and the experiences of carers. He emphasises the importance of quality of care, recognising the critical role that caregivers play in the well-being of individuals living with dementia. This research can contribute to improving standards and practices in dementia care. Moreover, Dr Keates is keen on investigating neurodivergent lives across the life course, as well as promoting inclusive pedagogy. He has a specific interest in the theatre and comedy pedagogy and practice, so as to foster more inclusive learning environments. Students pursuing doctoral work in these areas or related topics will find a supportive and engaging supervisory experience.
Further information
I became a Fellow of Advance HE (formerly the Higher Education Academy) in March 2020. I hold an MA in Sociology and a BA in Social Science, both from Makerere University, Uganda. I have nearly 20 years of combined experience in research, programme and organisational management in the context of HIV/AIDS and Sub-Saharan Africa, as well as teaching in the UK.