Hi, my name is Jonn and I am a final (4th) year of my PhD researcher working on a historical botany project. Today, I am urgently seeking support to help me stay financially afloat while I complete my doctoral studies and transition into employment.

Over the past year, my research and creative work have received meaningful recognition. I have been invited to give a TEDx talk, included in the Venice Biennale, invited to speak on panels, and I have a forthcoming book chapter with a major academic press. These opportunities have been deeply important for my academic and professional development, but unfortunately none of them were paid, and pursuing them has come with significant financial strain.

My research is funded through arts council stipend, which is paid quarterly. But as some of you may know, the PhD stipend is lower than the national minimal wage and almost impossible to survive on in London. As a full-time researcher I have had to take on additional work to support myself but as I am currently writing up my thesis I have no capacity to do so.

Two months ago, I had to move house unexpectedly, which meant paying a deposit and covering moving expenses at short notice. At the same time, I also had to travel for PhD-related work. Together, these unexpected costs have left me struggling to cover essentials such as rent, bills, food and transportation.

I am the first person in my family to pursue a doctoral degree. I do not receive financial support from family, and I have spent much of this year trying to balance the demands of completing my PhD while simply trying to stay financially stable.

I am now in the writing-up stage of my doctorate and preparing to submit my PhD in early September. However, my stipend ends in August, meaning I am also facing uncertainty about how I will support myself immediately afterwards. I am actively applying for jobs and hoping to begin work in July so that I can cover my rent and living costs from September onwards.

Any contribution, no matter how small, would make an enormous difference right now. Your support would help me:

* Pay upcoming rent and bills cost

* Afford food and transport while completing my thesis

* Continue and finish my PhD without the immediate threat of housing insecurity

If you are unable to donate, sharing this campaign would also mean a great deal.

Thank you for reading, supporting, and helping me reach the finish line of this journey.