Dr Lania Knight

Professional biography

I joined the OU in April 2021. Prior to that, I lectured at University of Gloucestershire, Harlaxton College and Eastern Illinois University. I have a BS in Plant Science and Environmental Conservation from University of New Hampshire and a PhD in English and Creative Writing from University of Missouri. 

Research interests

I am interested in the natural world, creativity and neurodivergence. I write fiction, nonfiction and poetry. My current research examines the creative practice and includes questions of neurodivergence and creativity. 

Teaching interests

I teach on several Creative Writing modules, both undergraduate and postgraduate. I am open to supervising PhD students who write fiction or creative nonfiction, short or long form, or poetry. If you would like to enquire about potential PhD supervision, please contact FASS-EnglishCreativeWriting-Equiries@open.ac.uk

Impact and engagement

I have presented my work nationally and internationally numerous times, including Asosciation of Writers and Writing Programs (AWP), National Association of Writers in Education (NAWE), Great Writing London, Creative Writing Studies Organisation (CWSO), Hands On Literary Festival New Orleans and Secluded Writers Online. I've received Arts Council England funding to bring professional writers to Cumbria, and have been invited to judge writing contests and creative writing residency applicants. I've collaborated with colleagues and students to present on creative practice, creative writing pedagogy and accessiblity. I've given many readings of my own creative work and led many community writing events both in person and online.