As part of the Summer of Research 2025, postgraduate and early career researchers gathered for the Beyond Research World Café held at the ACCA café on 11 June, for a lively session filled with conversation designed to take them beyond the boundaries of their research projects.
The World Café setting encouraged fluid, small-group discussions where attendees could rotate between tables and engage with multiple topics during a single session, fostering the opportunity for connection and learning about diverse avenues for personal and professional development. Each table was hosted by researchers and representatives actively involved in researcher-led initiatives, offering firsthand insight into how academic engagement can stretch far beyond the thesis.
From exploring identity through creative research methods to championing equity, diversity, and inclusion, the table hosts brought a rich tapestry of experience and enthusiasm. Tiffany Murphy sparked deep reflection with her project Close to My Heart, which uses autoethnographic approaches to delve into personal narratives within research. Her table invited conversations about authenticity and vulnerability in academic work.
Louisa Rinaldi and Emily Whelan discussed the importance of recognition and celebration in the academic journey through their initiative Empowering Excellence: Unlocking Prizes, which includes the impactful 'Research for the Greater Good' Award. Their work encouraged attendees in Psychology to think critically about how success is measured and shared in academia.
Mitakshara Medhi led conversations on her powerful EDI initiative Listening to Lived Experiences, emphasizing the value of amplifying underrepresented voices in research environments. Her table drew in researchers passionate about fostering inclusive academic cultures.
Charlotte Austwick, one of the Research Hive Scholars, shared her experiences of community building, academic advocacy, and the impact of peer-support networks. Her insights provided a real-world glimpse into the potential of the Hive Scholar programme.
Current PGR and ECR Representatives rounded out the event, reflecting and advising on representation, leadership, and how to shape research culture from within here at Sussex. See the SRS website for more information about the PGR Reps and ECR Reps, and how to get involved.
Following robust discussion over lunch, attendees left inspired — motivated to think creatively about their role as researchers and to seek new ways to engage with their peers, institution, and wider research communities. This event was a reminder that research is not only about generating knowledge, but also about growing as individuals and shaping the world around us.
For more information about Summer of Research 2025 events and opportunities to celebrate and support emerging researchers, visit the Celebrating Emerging Researchers webpage.