Introduction

I am currently engaged in revising my doctoral dissertation, which explores a variety of topics, including the role of women in the Ku Klux Klan in Dallas during the 1920s, the intellectual structure of scientific literatures, and the political and economic complexities of Estonia's decision to join the European Union.

Women in the Ku Klux Klan: A Historical Analysis

My initial research delved into the topic of women and the Ku Klux Klan in Dallas during the 1920s. The Ku Klux Klan was a prominent, albeit controversial, movement in the United States, known for its racist and often violent activities. During this period, there was even a women's division within the organization, known as the Women's Ku Klux Klans. However, the women's agenda differed significantly from the broader agitations of the group.

The Longitudinal Study on Intellectual Structure

Another dimension of my research involves a longitudinal analysis of the intellectual structure within scientific literatures. Specifically, my work focuses on the networks created when two authors are cited in the same reference lists, as well as the mental models that researchers have of their fields. The aim is to compare the structural patterns of macroeconomics, social science, and Drosophila genetics. This study provides insights into the evolution of knowledge and how fields of study are interconnected.

Estonia’s Journey to the European Union: A Study in Nationalism and Internationalism

A significant portion of my dissertation addresses the question of why Estonia, a state with a powerful nationalist identity, has enthusiastically pursued membership in the European Union. This political and economic union is characterized by supranational governance and international cooperation, traits that seemingly contradict the principle of nationalism. My analysis delves into the political history of Estonia since the restoration of its independence from the Soviet Union and examines the discourse and actions of its leaders.

Biochemistry and Transfer RNA: A Personal Journey

My foray into the world of academia began in biochemistry, where I researched the role of transfer RNA (tRNA) in protein synthesis. tRNA molecules are essential mediators that help translate the genetic code from DNA into precise amino acid sequences in proteins. My specific focus was on how transfer RNAs interact with enzymes that attach amino acids to the RNAs, ensuring that the correct amino acid is added to the growing peptide chain.

Conclusion

Through the course of my doctoral research, I have covered a diverse range of topics, from historical and cultural analysis to political and economic analysis, and from biological mechanisms to intellectual structures in scientific fields. While my thesis may not be widely read, the insights gained from this research contribute to our understanding of various complex issues.