Candidate Profile

Tell students about yourself

Hi, I am Lishan, but you can call me Diamond. I am a first-year postgraduate research student in Marketing at Durham Business School. I’m originally from Chongqing in southwest China, home of hotpot. My research explores how Gen Z engage with ethical fashion on social commerce platforms, with interests in digital consumer culture, sustainability, and cross-cultural research. I’m always happy to chat about research ideas, UK life, and settling into our Business School community.

If elected, what sort of Officer can students expect you be?

Students can expect me to be a responsive and proactive Officer. I will be PGR students’ voice in meetings, advocating for fairer treatment, clearer processes, and stronger support when it is needed most. I am happy to help students tackle problems by collecting feedback, raising issues constructively, and pushing for practical solutions. I will also organise events to connect students across programmes, create chances for peer support, and build networking opportunities with staff, alumni, and industry.

Why is this role important to you?

This role matters to me because PGR students often face challenges that are easy to overlook, such as the transition from being a taught student to an independent researcher, which can intensify pressures around workload, wellbeing, and isolation. I care about making the PhD journey feel more supported, fair, and positive, especially for first-year and international students who may be navigating UK systems for the first time. Although I am a first-year PhD student, I completed my foundation, undergraduate, and master’s studies in the UK, which puts me in a good position to support others as they adapt to a new environment. I also hope to build a stronger sense of community by creating more opportunities for peer connection, knowledge sharing, and professional development, aiming to help students feel heard, reduce loneliness, and thrive in their research.

What is your pitch to students?

Vote for me for a more supported and connected PGR community.

I will advocate for relaxed socials, stronger support, and timely communication, while creating more opportunities for peer connection and networking. More connection, more opportunities, more fun.

No More Solo-PhD Era