Whether you want to know about how to use author identifiers to track your research output or discuss how the latest episode of Ahsoka impacts the overall Star Wars universe, Christina Miskey (‘12, History) is ready to chat.
As the Research Impact Librarian, Miskey works with UNLV faculty to better track the impact of their research using tools like ORCID, Altmetric Explorer, or Google Scholar. Through one-on-one or departmental consultations, she is connecting faculty with tools that help to increase the visibility of their research and analyze scholarly activity data to demonstrate their reach.
Outside of her work in the Libraries, Miskey is devoted to geek and fan culture, and loves attending fan conventions and indulging in her passion for pop culture. She finds talking about these shared interests is a great way to connect with others.
How did you become interested in a career in libraries?
Growing up, I was an avid reader and would often check out as many books as I could from my local public library. It was a safe space for me to explore and learn. While I was earning my bachelor’s degree, I learned about librarianship as a career, and wanted to become a librarian so I could help others explore new things to achieve their goals and have a safe and welcoming space to do it.
How do you define your role as the Research Impact Librarian?
I help researchers at UNLV at all career stages to show the reach and significance of their research. I also help them to establish their identities as researchers through things like author identifiers (ORCID). My role includes working with others in the Libraries and campus offices, such as the Office of Research, to support researchers as they move through their careers, seek funding for their research, apply for new positions, or apply for tenure and promotion.
How does your work help faculty at UNLV?
I introduce them to tools, resources, and guide them on the best ways to tell the story of their work. A common question I get from faculty is about navigating the many resources that exist for research impact, and how it can help their unique needs. I help faculty to make connections between different tools, simplifying how they work together to show impact and maintain their identity as scholars.
You help other people track the impact of their own research. What is a research project you’re working on that you’re excited about?
I’m working with a few colleagues on a research project where we are examining academic library tenure and promotion policies within the United States and how this compares with librarians’ lived experiences. We’re currently working on obtaining funding for the project, and look forward to continuing within the next year.
What makes UNLV special to you?
The community. I enjoy working with my colleagues and building relationships across campus, where we can create spaces for students from all backgrounds to come and learn. My absolute favorite thing is the Lance and Elena Calvert Award for Undergraduate Research, where we support undergraduate student research from freshman to senior year. I was a student winner during my undergrad, and now I love being a judge and seeing all of the fantastic student scholarship, and the community at UNLV that supports this program.
Outside of work, what are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about geek and fan culture, and have many fandoms — ranging from Star Wars, Star Trek, and Doctor Who, to comic books and anime. I frequently attend fan conventions, and one of my favorite things to do is to chat with creators, artists, actors, and other fans about our mutual passions in a fun and welcoming environment. It’s a great way to connect with others.
What is the most Vegas thing you’ve done since moving here?
When I was getting married, I found a local woman to create our invitations. She was a showgirl at one of the Strip casinos, and created invitations and other things on the side. I met her at the casino in between her shows, and she came out in full makeup and outfit (minus her head wear). We met at the sportsbook to review the invites and so I could pick them up.
What is something that people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’ve held a lot of odd jobs over the years, and the two people always are surprised to hear about is the summer I worked (virtually) at the Busy Beaver Button Museum in Chicago researching historical pinback buttons, and my two days working as a door-to-door vacuum salesperson.
What are you currently reading or watching?
I’m currently reading Born to Be Hanged: The Epic Story of the Gentlemen Pirates Who Raided the South Seas, Rescued a Princess, and Stole a Fortune by Keith Thomson.
