Ghiasuddin Pir is a doctoral candidate in Anthropology at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). His research focusses on the social impact of infrastructural development in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. He holds a Master of Arts degree in Social Anthropology from SOAS and an undergraduate degree in Anthropology & Behavioural Studies from the University of Aberdeen. Ghias brings over seven years of experience in the development sector, primarily in Pakistan, where he has worked on projects related to social development, cultural heritage, and community engagement. Furthermore, he has taught at the Institute for Art and Culture (IAC) and is currently a visiting faculty member at the University of Lahore (UOL). His work bridges academic research and real-world applications, particularly in the context of South Asia.
Current Research:
Ghiasuddin Pir’s doctoral research examines the impact of large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Focusing on Gilgit Baltistan, his work explores the socio-cultural and environmental consequences of how road networks and internet connectivity are reshaping everyday life. Through studies of schools, construction sites, and co-working spaces, he investigates how infrastructure is driving socio-economic change and influencing community identity.
In his previous research, Ghiasuddin has explored cultural heritage management, the de-politicisation of public spaces, history of mental health care in Pakistan, people’s history of Lahore’s transgender community, and the role that pre-partition material culture can play in decolonisation.
Areas of Study:
Anthropology; Infrastructure; Roads; Development; Change