Kaiko Lenhard M.A.

After completing my architecture degree at TU Darmstadt, I joined the Translation Studies program at the Faculty of Translation, Linguistics and Cultural Studies (FTSK) of the University of Mainz in Germersheim, completing an M.A. in Translation in 2021.

Since the launch of the CRC, I have been working as a PhD student and research assistant in the project "Sorting and Translating" (B03). My dissertation project deals with the variable use of personal linguistic repertoires in heterolingual situations in the context of forced migration – for example, reception facilities at the state level or grassroots aid for refugees at train stations. I am investigating the influence of different factors – such as visible language in public spaces, institutional guidelines, or the perceived proficiency of oneself and others – on the choice of languages, varieties and registers for written and oral communication.

As a teacher at the Department of Intercultural German Studies at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, I introduce students in our department to qualitative research and data analysis methods as well as the flexible use of English in a range of professional and cultural contexts.

Foto: Stephanie Füssenich