Tagged / Events

3C Event: Research Culture, Community & Can you Guess Who? Thursday 26 March 1-2pm

The Doctoral College invites BU’s research community to a relaxed online social centred on Culture, Community, and Connection

This 3C event offers a playful break from the academic routine with a “Guess Who?” game where your work takes centre stage. Submit an image that best represents your research along with a 7-word description of your work, then join us online to see who can match the clues to the right researcher.

Whether you contribute, or join as an audience member, it’s a fantastic way to share your work creatively and spark new collaborations

Event Details

Thursday 26 March

1-2pm

Online

Find out more and register here

We’re looking forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions about the event, please get in touch with the Research Development & Culture Team: researcherdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk

Exploring Embodied Research: Body Map Storytelling Workshop & Research Seminar

PG research

Supported by the PGR Research Culture and Community Grant, Zahra Eskandari (PhD Candidate, Faculty of Business & Law) recently hosted a two-day workshop introducing Body Map Storytelling to the BU research community. This innovative, arts-based method focuses on using creative expression to explore lived experiences, empowering participants to bridge their personal journeys with broader academic practices.

A space for reflection and connection

The interactive session took place at Poole House on Thursday 22 January. Designed specifically for international women PGRs and ECRs, the workshop provided a supportive environment to explore themes of physical activity, wellbeing and belonging. Participants engaged in a hands-on creative process, developing unique body maps that combined visual expression with storytelling.

One participant noted:

“Through this workshop, I realised more about my choices and my engagement.”

Examples of body maps created during the workshop, where participants used colour and symbols to represent their lived experiences and emotional wellbeing.

Examples of body maps created during the workshop, where participants used colour and symbols to represent their lived experiences and emotional wellbeing.

Interdisciplinary learning

The following day, the focus shifted to the Fusion Building for a research seminar led by Dr Anna Smirnova (Creative Health Associate, Edge Hill University). Dr Smirnova shared insights from her PhD research using this method with young people in Kyrgyzstan, providing a deep dive into the ethical and analytical foundations of the approach.

The seminar attracted a diverse group, including five postgraduate researchers and nine lecturers, creating an engaging cross-disciplinary exchange of ideas.

A participating lecturer described it as:

“One of the few events where you could learn something new and hear about the incredible research being carried out elsewhere.”

The PGR community in action: participants at the Body Map Storytelling workshop exploring embodied research methods

Impact

For the organiser, Zahra Eskandari, managing this project was “Empowering, Transformative, and Challenging”. While building Zahra’s project management and budget skills, the project also gave BU researchers new, creative tools for inclusive research. The positive engagement from both the workshop and seminar showed a clear demand for more arts-based sessions at BU in the future.

Apply for the PGR Research Culture and Community Grant

Do you have an idea for an event or initiative that could strengthen the research culture at BU? We invite you to follow in Zahra’s footsteps and apply for funding to bring your project to life.

Find out more and submit your application here: Research Culture and Community Grant PGR Application

Closing date 4pm, Monday 9 March 2026

If you would like to discuss your ideas before submitting your application, please contact Enrica Conrotto, Researcher Development Manager, at pgrskillsdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk.

Marking a Milestone: The Swash Channel Wreck Book Launch

Supported by the ECR Research Culture and Community Grant, Tom Cousins (Faculty of Health, Environment & Medical Sciences) recently organised a public lecture and book launch to celebrate the publication of research on the Swash Channel Wreck. This event served as a major milestone for a project that has spanned Tom’s entire career at Bournemouth University, from his time as an undergraduate and postgraduate student to his current role as a full-time member of the technical staff.

A Celebration of Maritime Archaeology

The Swash Channel Wreck Book

The Swash Channel Wreck Book

The event, held at Talbot Campus on 28 January, featured a well-attended public lecture and celebrated the launch of a new book by Dave Parham and Tom Cousins. The session featured an in-depth presentation on the Swash Channel Wreck, a 17th-century Dutch shipwreck first located in 1990 and rediscovered in 2006. As one of the most complete shipwrecks of its kind outside the Baltic, the site offers rare insights into 17th-century ship construction and life on board.

Combined with a display of archaeological finds, the event showcased years of research to members of the public and the wider BU community, including the University Executive Team and the Vice-Chancellor. The presentation was followed by a wine reception, allowing attendees to view the artifacts first-hand and discuss the findings

Beyond the university, the launch brought together long-term stakeholders from government agencies, harbour authorities, and museums. It was a reminder that the project was a shared effort, involving divers, students, and partners across two countries. Seeing everyone reunite to mark the publication, highlighted the project’s lasting significance for BU’s maritime archaeology and all who contributed to its journey.

Presenting the history of the Swash Channel Wreck during a public lecture, followed by a networking session where researchers, stakeholders, and the public gathered to celebrate the project's milestone.

Presenting the history of the Swash Channel Wreck during a public lecture, followed by a networking session where researchers, stakeholders, and the public gathered to celebrate the project’s milestone.

Supporting the research community

The launch was a collaborative effort that directly supported the development of early-career researchers and postgraduate students. Several PGRs and ECRs assisted in setting up and managing the day, providing them with valuable opportunities to network with members of the public, industry professionals, and senior university leadership.

Tom described the overall experience as “Interesting, welcoming, and collaborative,” noting that the greatest benefit was the opportunity to share this significant research with both the BU community and members of the public.

Apply for the ECR Research Culture and Community Grant

Do you have an idea for an event or initiative that could strengthen the research culture at BU? We invite you to follow in Tom’s footsteps and apply for funding to bring your project to life.

Find out more and submit your application here: Research Culture and Community Grant

Closing date 4pm, Monday 9 March 2026

If you would like to discuss your ideas before submitting your application, please contact Enrica Conrotto, Researcher Development Manager, at researcherdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk

Celebrating our Research: Postgraduate Research Showcase 2026

The Doctoral College invites the BU community to the Postgraduate Research Showcase, hosted in the Atrium Gallery from Tuesday 3 February to Thursday 26 February 2026.

This exhibition features a curated selection of posters from our 17th Annual Postgraduate Research Conference. It is a fantastic opportunity to explore the diverse research being driven by our Postgraduate Researchers. The selected posters will remain on display throughout the duration of the showcase, allowing you plenty of time to visit and engage with the work.

Join us for the Launch Event

To kick off the exhibition, we are hosting a celebratory launch event. This is a chance to network with fellow researchers, meet academics, and show your support for the PGR community.

  • Wednesday 4 February 2026
  • 3-4pm
  • Atrium Gallery, Poole House, Talbot Campus
  • Cheese and wine will be provided (with vegan and non-alcoholic options available).

Register your place via Eventbrite here

Please note there will be no virtual exhibition this year, so make sure to stop by the Atrium Gallery in person to experience the showcase. If you would like a taste of the energy from our recent conference, you can catch highlights and images from the event on YouTube.

We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating the incredible contributions of our Postgraduate Researchers

3C Event: Research Culture, Community & Cookies – Tuesday 13 January 10-11am

Behind every successful grant and impact case study, is a dedicated support team. Join us at our next 3C event to meet the Research & Innovation Services staff in person. Discover the specialised support available to help you navigate and succeed on your research journey.

No slides, just support

Grab a coffee and a cookie, and have an informal chat with the Research and Innovation Services Team. No appointments, no formal presentations, just a chance to connect with the people behind your research support services. The same friendly 3C atmosphere you love, now with added expertise.

Who’s joining us?

The following RIS staff members will be joining us to answer your questions or simply say hello:

  • Shumana Begum – Research Governance Adviser
  • Claire Fenton – REF Lead
  • Eva Papadopoulou – Research Grants Manager (Pre-Award)
  • Julia Taylor – Head of Doctoral College
  • Alex Morrison – Research Grants Programme Manager

Event Details

Date: Tuesday 13 January

Time: 10-11am

Location: Room K103, Kimmeridge House, Talbot Campus

How to join: Find out more and register here

We’re looking forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions about the event, please do get in touch with the Research Development & Culture Team: researcherdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk

Join the 17th Annual Postgraduate Research Conference – Wednesday 3 December 2025

Knowledge Exchange, PG research

17th Annual Postgraduate Research Conference: Register now

Register now to attend the 17th Annual Postgraduate Research Conference, hosted by the Doctoral College.

Join us for a day of showcasing some of the excellent research taking place across BU by our postgraduate research community. This event provides a platform for our postgraduate researchers to present their research, share insights, and engage in meaningful discussions with peers, university colleagues, and external partners.

Date & Time: Wednesday 3 December, 9am-4:30pm

Location: Fusion Building, Talbot Campus

This year, the Poster Exhibition will take place in FG04 & FG06, Fusion Building, with viewings taking place in the morning and during the lunch break. Oral presentations hosted in Share Lecture Theatre in the Fusion Building.

Whether you’re a researcher, academic, colleague, or just interested in the cutting-edge work happening at BU find out more and book your place here 

The detailed programme will be available soon.

Exciting Opportunities for Early Career Researchers

Knowledge Exchange, Training

We are delighted to share upcoming events from the British Academy Early Career Researcher Network (BA ECRN) Southwest & South Wales cluster. These are fantastic opportunities for networking, skill development, and engaging with key topics relevant to ECRs in the humanities, arts, and social sciences.

SWSW Connect Online Community Meeting: Research Culture and Excellence Frameworks

Date & Time: Tuesday 11 November, 12-1pm

This is a monthly online meeting for ECRs in the humanities and social sciences. It is a space to network, share knowledge, and support each other across the region. November’s session will focus on how ECR research can contribute to the research culture environment and to key UK frameworks: Research Excellence (REF), Knowledge Exchange (KEF), and Teaching Excellence (TEF).

Register on the BA ECRN Portal to find out more and book

Reaching Out: Forming Interdisciplinary Connections

Date: Tuesday 18 November, 10am-4pm

Location: University of Exeter

This in-person workshop is for ECRs who want to work together on research projects that cross different disciplines. The goal is to teach ECRs how to find partners, start these interdisciplinary projects, and gain better insights and funding advice from experienced researchers.

Register on the BA ECRN Portal to find out more and book

Development Fund Workshop: The Impact of the ‘Impact Agenda’

Date & Time: Thursday 27 November, 10:30am-5:30pm

Location: The British Academy, London

This workshop will examine the effect of the ‘impact agenda’ on the professional development and career paths of ECRs in the Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences. It will bring together ECRs, senior academics, and policy actors to develop practical recommendations for improving impact training and career progression.

Register on the BA ECRN Portal to find out more and book

SWSW Webinar Series

The SWSW Webinar Series brings monthly knowledge and skill-based content from engaging expert speakers.

Knowledge Exchange and Commercialisation

Date & Time: Thursday 4 December, 11am-12pm

Directors of the University of Exeter’s SHArD 3D Lab will present an overview of successful Knowledge Exchange initiatives. They provide specialised training, workshops, and research solutions for the heritage and emergency services sectors. The presentation highlights insights from their experience in departmental business engagement and impact leadership.

Register on the BA ECRN Portal to find out more and book

Research Impact Culture: AHRC and ESRC Impact Accelerator Accounts

Date & Time: Friday 5 December, 10am-12pm

This workshop introduces Impact Accelerator Accounts (IAA): research council funds provided to universities to develop a research impact culture. The session will cover the concept of research impact, examples of IAA-supported projects, and the aims of the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) IAA programmes. Participants will learn about available internal IAA support and funding to help researchers translate their work into real-world impact.

Find out more and book here

Stay Connected

We encourage all Early Career Researchers to join the BA ECRN Portal and ECRN platform for continuous updates on events, funding opportunities, and other resources relevant to your career development.

Our Researcher Development Hub is now available as your dedicated space to easily find resources and development opportunities for your research career stage.

Don’t miss our Researcher Social – 3C Event: Research Culture, Community & Cake Wednesday 12 November 3-4 pm

Don’t miss our researcher social taking place on Wednesday 12 November from 3-4 pm.

The Doctoral College is excited to invite all members of BU’s Research Community for this informal social. If you are looking for a relaxed, easy way to meet new people and chat about your work, this is it.

This is a fantastic opportunity for all researchers to connect, exchange ideas, or even start a new collaboration.

Why you should join us:

This informal forum is the perfect place to:

  • Meet fellow researchers from across the university.
  • Share your own research and hear what exciting projects others are working on.
  • Develop new connections and expand your network.
  • Ask any questions you might have, especially if you are new to the BU research environment.

Event details

  • Wednesday 12 November, 3–4 pm
  •  F202, Fusion Building, Talbot Campus
  • Complimentary Refreshments

Find out more and register here

We look forward to seeing you there.

If you have any questions about the event, please do get in touch with the Research Development & Culture Team: researcherdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk

3C Event: Research Culture, Community & Cake – Wednesday 12 November, 3-4pm

Join Our Researcher Social!

The Doctoral College is excited to invite all members of the BU Research Community to our informal social event.

This is a fantastic opportunity for all researchers to connect and exchange ideas over refreshments.

It is a relaxed forum where you can:

  • Meet fellow researchers from across the university
  • Share your research and hear what others are doing
  • Develop new connections
  • Ask any questions you might have, particularly if you’ve recently started

We’d love to see you there!

Event Details

  • Wednesday 12 November, 3-4pm
  • F202, Fusion Building, Talbot Campus

Find out more and register here

If you have any questions about the event, please do get in touch with the Research Development & Culture Team: researcherdevelopment@bournemouth.ac.uk