We are HADES
Humanities and Diverse eResearch Scholars
HADES 2026 – Subverting data stories from the underground
In 2026, HADES is running a series of seminars with the overarching theme of Subversion.
What does it mean to subvert in research? To subvert is to unsettle, to disrupt – to work within a system while quietly, or not so quietly, challenging its foundations. It is research that centres minority voices, that questions dominant narratives, and that claims space long policed or overlooked.
How does subversion manifest in practice? Is it in the methodological – applying quantitative approaches to traditionally qualitative methods, or moving with and beyond the digital in post-digital research? Is it in the political –Indigenising and decolonising research, challenging what is taken as known, and adopting perspectives that refuse the standard view?
And what of failure? There is something radical about naming what did not work, drawing it into the light, and learning from it honestly. Subversion, perhaps, is not always loud. Sometimes it is simply the courage to do things differently. Operating within accepted bounds while refusing to be bound by them.
Engage with HADES
Our events are listed on the RDU Events Calendar
Follow us on BlueSky @WeAreHADES
Email us hades-info@unimelb.edu.au
To infinity and beyond!
Upcoming events
Critiquing digital critique
Monday 27 July
2pm to 3pm
Online via Zoom

This seminar as challenges us to consider aesthetics of The Digital and distinguish it from digital aesthetics by attending to how we are afforded our impressions of either. At issue is the distinction between how and what experience in relation to digital materiality versus to digital form, where the latter may be informed by but ultimately surpasses the former.
- Amanda Belton (chair)
- Dr Emily Fitzgerald
- Dr Fiannuala Morgan
- Dr Aleks Michalewicz
- Marlaina Read
- Dr Michael Falk
If you’re interested in being part of a vibrant, innovative and welcoming group of Humanities eResearch Scholars get in touch hades-info@unimelb.edu.au
HADES manifesto
We are HADES: A group of Humanities and Diverse eResearch Scholars based at the University of Melbourne.
We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we research, work, live and learn and pay our respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Elders past and present.
We are united around inclusive, diverse and ethical approaches to digital research in the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences as well as by our focus on the crucial link between teaching and research.
We’re interested in connecting and sharing ideas about projects, events, collaboration opportunities, teaching, workshops and new digital approaches in Humanities research.
We’re interested in exploring the activities and career opportunities of the growing number of people working at the intersection of research, teaching and professional roles. We love working with data, in all its forms, and are passionate about the critical role of the Humanities in responding to the world’s biggest research challenges.