Prof. Dr. Nicolas Martin

• Associate Professor of Modern Indian / South Asian Studies
• Deputy Director Institute of Asian and Oriental Studies

Research Interests

Professor Martin’s research examines two interrelated themes: the socio-political dimensions of modernisation and state formation, and the role of democratic institutions and electoral politics in advancing social equity. The first theme investigates how processes of modernisation and state-building have shaped religion, caste, and class structures, with a primary focus on India and Pakistan. This includes an analysis of economic transformation and an inquiry into why caste and religion continue to play such a central role in regional politics.  The second theme focuses on democratic institutions and electoral politics, particularly their effectiveness in realising constitutional ideals of equality. This work critically assesses whether and how electoral competition and governance structures have contributed to reducing entrenched disparities or, conversely, reinforced existing hierarchies. Looking ahead, Professor Martin’s research will expand to examine pathways of upward social mobility in South Asia, with particular attention to how international migration reshapes power dynamics within India’s diasporic communities. This future work will explore the extent to which transnational mobility disrupts or reproduces existing structures of privilege and marginalisation.