“The Centre for Sexual Dissidence is what Sussex University is about. It's radical, it's political, and most of all it's critically engaged with the world we live in.”

- Sharif Mowlabocus, Senior Lecturer in Media Studies and Digital Media

The Centre for the Study of Sexual Dissidence, or Sex Diss as it is affectionately known, is a space that brings together researchers and activists in queer and sexuality studies. Recent areas of discussion include: Gaydar; trans photography in Nepal; HIV-related activism and ACT UP; Chinese queer cinema; sexuality and digital culture; and sex worker rights in India. That’s just a taste of the issues covered by our MA course, our academic staff, and our students.

Sex Diss is a hub for research on sexuality and queer studies. We work with staff and students within the University of Sussex and we reach out externally to the local community in Brighton and Hove and an international network of artists, scholars and campaigners.

We offer opportunities for graduate work in queer studies through our our MA in Sexual Dissidence. If you are interested in graduate study, please do read more about it and consider applying.

Even if you are not enrolled on one of our courses there are opportunities to get involved. We hold a reading group and regularly host speakers and performers. These events are open to all.

The Centre is a welcoming and open space. We strive to provide an environment that is comfortable and engaging for everyone that has an interest in queer studies and sexuality. So get in touch and join in.