Meet the Learning Lab team

Dr Giovanni Graglia

Study Adviser (Team Lead)

I have been at LSE since 2006, first as a student and later as a member of staff. Over the last 20 years at the School I’ve advised students on academic and administrative matters, taught, researched, studied, provided pastoral care (and also played basketball and ran for LSE’s clubs). Outside of academia, I spend most of my time playing with my daughters and reading (from Julia Donaldson’s books for my younger one, to 20th century global literature for myself) 

What I can do for you as a Study Adviser:  You’ll dictate the pace and direction of our sessions (though I’ll let you know if there is something that I can’t/won’t be able to do!). We can talk about your readings, ideas for an essay, plan exam revision, think about your approach to your dissertation or a plethora of other academic concerns you might have.  

Dr Jessica Kong

Study Adviser

I completed my PhD at LSE in Media & Communications with a focus on Sound Studies, based on qualitative approaches. As a pianist interested in psychology and social change, I love contemplating the relationships between art and society, and the role of agency in such dynamics.  

Additional to my academic advisory role, I also offer pastoral care, personal and professional support to students - which is another area that I am so passionate about.

What I can do for you as a Study Adviser: 

We can discuss anything you wish to navigate while studying at LSE! This ranges from learning and study skills, such as essay and reading tips, note-taking, presentation skills, dissertation related questions, exam preparation and time-management; to everyday life and study wellness topics, including motivation, confidence, stress and wellbeing management, personal goal and social expectation...etc.  

If yours isn’t covered yet, please just come by and we will navigate with you! 

Dr Joanne Kalogeras 

Associate Study Advisor 

After a career in software development, I received my MSc and PhD from LSE’s Department of Gender Studies. My thesis, “Troubling Cosmopolitanism”, constructed a critical cosmopolitan theory with critical and normative theories. After several years of interdisciplinary teaching, I now specialise in advising and tutoring students on academic skills and practices. I really love the one-to-one sessions that allow us to work directly with students on exactly what their issues are.  

What I can do for you as a Study Adviser: Whatever issues you’d like to talk to us about, we’re here for you. If we can’t help you, we can direct you to someone who can. When it comes to academic skills and practices, this is the place to go for advice. I can help you write essays, reports, dissertations – any number of assessments – or help you study for exams, or even just talk to you about handling the stresses of life at LSE.  

Dr Maria-Christina Vogkli 

Associate Study Adviser 

I have been at LSE since...forever... 2014 to be precise! I began as a postgraduate and doctoral student and later held roles including Study Adviser, Research Officer and Associate, and Guest Teacher in Sociology, where I completed my PhD. My research was an urban ethnography on homelessness, care, and the city. Outside academia, I have worked as a freelance policy and research consultant for NGOs and local organisations. In my free time, I spend time with my daughter, walk by the Thames, read Sociology and Psychotherapy books, and follow current affairs. 

What I can do for you as a Study Adviser: 

I am open to discussing anything you like, from simply listening to working together on areas where you may need help or advice. This includes academic and study support, such as essay writing, note-taking, exam preparation, dissertation-related questions, organising your time effectively or methodology-related questions especially around qualitative methods. We can also discuss your personal wellbeing and experience as a student, including issues of confidence, stress, homesickness, dealing with pressure, and your professional development. 

Nathalie Pinole  

 Associate Study Advisor   

 Nice to meet you! I’m Nathalie. I have been working within higher education both in the UK and Japan since 2018. I specialise in supporting students with academic writing, research skills, essay development, broader study skills, and English language support, and have worked with undergraduate and postgraduate students across a range of disciplines. I am a graduate of LSE’s Department of Gender, Media and Culture, and am currently exploring intersections of gender and knowledge production within English language teaching.  

 What I can do for you as a Study Adviser:

Our sessions are completely open and flexible, and we can discuss any aspect of your academic life at LSE. I can support you with a wide range of academic challenges, from structuring essays and developing your argument, to strengthening your research and study skills. I also offer English language support for students who have language concerns. We can also talk more generally about the pressures of student life, including managing your time, dealing with stress, and working towards deadlines. 

Clara Cirdan

Study Advisor

I completed my PhD in the Sociology Department at LSE, researching how museums engage with communities through ethnographic fieldwork across galleries and archives. Originally from Romania, I studied English and Norwegian Literature and have a longstanding love of exploring cultures and languages. I'm drawn to questions about writing, identity, knowledge production and art’s social role. When I'm not reading or writing, I enjoy hiking and dancing. 

 What I can do for you as a Study Adviser:

I support students with academic writing, dissertation planning, research design, and exam study planning,  from the early stages of finding your question to structuring and refining your argument. I enjoy working through ideas together and helping students find their own voice in their writing. Whatever stage you're at, I offer a supportive space to think things through and move forward with more confidence. 

Dr Michael Beaney 

Learning Developer 

I have been with the LSE for ten years, most recently joining the Learning Lab in 2022 after a period at the LSE’s Language Centre. I completed my doctorate at UCL in 2024, with my research interests spanning innovative assessment, educational quality, and migration and identity in higher education. Outside work, I enjoy running, travel and playing piano, and am a new dad navigating the early chaos of parenthood. 

What I can do for you as a Learning Developer:

I design and deliver workshops across areas such as academic writing, reading strategies, oral assessments, and dissertation support for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. I bring particular expertise in academic writing and AI literacies, helping students engage critically with their course material and with AI tools. Whether you're looking to develop your academic skills, use feedback to improve on your next assignment, or think through your aspects of your dissertation, I can offer practical, research-informed support tailored to LSE's demands. 

Dr Sarah Taylor 

Learning Developer 

I’ve worked at LSE since 2015, first in the Language Centre, before joining the Learning Lab in 2019. I’ve studied Journalism, English Literature, Applied Linguistics and Education! My doctoral thesis examined professional identity through a sociological lens. My current research interests include identity and effective learning, including how AI can support learning. I’m mad about horses, so I spend a lot of time riding! I also enjoy hiking and reading, and I’m always keen to see pictures of your cat! 

What I can do for you as a Learning Developer:

I design and teach workshops to help you reach your academic goals, be they writing a great essay, managing your reading, or doing well in your exams. Teaching writing is my passion, I love talking about dissertation research, and I’ve recently been working on ways to maximise the learning opportunities created by AI tools. I also created the Prepare to learn at LSE Moodle course, which helps students hit the ground running when they begin their studies.  

Gemma Stansfield

Head of Learning Lab 

I’m the Head of Learning Lab, leading the unit and spearheading initiatives to enhance student learning and development at LSE. I have over 18 years’ experience working in Higher Education, holding leadership positions at LSE, London Business School and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. London based but globally minded!
My degrees are in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics, and I’m a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. When I’m not working, you’ll find me hiking up a hill, going to gigs or spending time with my two senior cats.

What I can do for you

We’re committed to making the Learning Lab a vibrant place where students can develop the skills needed for academic, personal and professional success. So, please feel free to contact me with suggestions about how the Learning Lab can best work with you.

Dr. Mariia Burmistrova 

AI Learning Developer/Quantitative Study Adviser 

I have studied internationally, completing my undergraduate degree in Bulgaria, Masters in Russia and Germany, and PhD in the UK. My doctoral research is in applied macroeconometrics, focusing on uncertainty, macroeconomic volatility, and unemployment. I previously worked in finance and audit and have been teaching since 2018, delivering a range of economics and finance modules and providing study advice. Outside of work, I love a cosy train journey with a good book or walking my dog in the forest. 

What I can do for you as a Learning Developer:

As a Quantitative Study Adviser, I can support you in building confidence with quantitative study skills, from learning how to approach core concepts to tackling assignments, dissertations and exam preparation effectively. I develop workshops and resources, including maths-focused materials for the Prepare to Learn module, designed as a refresher to support students across disciplines. I can also guide you in using AI as a study tool - helping to engage critically, improve efficiency, and maintain strong academic practices. 

Zoe Stevens   

Activities and Programmes Manager 

I’m activities and programmes manager at the Learning Lab. My role focuses on managing and organising our activities and programmes that aim to enhance student learning and development at LSE. I have been at LSE since 2023 and have previous experience managing projects and programmes in the education and not for profit sector - focusing on my passion for personal and professional development. Outside of work, you’ll find me chasing after my toddler, playing netball and enjoying the great outdoors.   

What I can do for you:   

We are always looking to develop and enhance our offer to students so please get in touch with any suggestions you may have!