IAS initiatives: Empowering Early Career Researchers in Interdisciplinary Exploration

On April 25th, the Institute of Advanced Study (IAS), in collaboration with Durham University’s Research Culture development project, Flourish@Durham, launched its first Interdisciplinary Research Development Program for early career researchers. Recognizing the need to enhance the interdisciplinary research and leadership skills of the postdoctoral researchers and fellows at Durham University, the IAS aimed to create a stimulating and supportive environment for the nourishment of their bold ideas and creative thinking.

The initiative began with a Sandpit event at IAS Cosin’s Hall on Palace Green. Co-organized and co-led by Dr. Ladan Cockshut, Assistant Professor for Research Culture, and Mary Robson, Senior Creative Facilitator at the Institute for Medical Humanities, the event turned out to be a vibrant success. Over 25 early career researchers from various faculties participated in dynamic group activities designed to connect them with peers from different disciplines, promote interdisciplinary inquiries, and expand their initial ideas through fresh perspectives. The energy and enthusiasm of the participants were palpable, highlighting the need for more such activities and support.

Following the Sandpit event, the IAS opened a funding call for Interdisciplinary Researcher Development Projects for postdoctoral researchers. We received numerous high-quality applications and, after careful consideration, awarded three outstanding projects, each with £1,500. The awarded projects are:

1. ‘Mater-morphosis: Transformations of Motherhood through Matrescence’ by Dr. Emily Tupper (Sport Sciences)

2. ‘Uncovering Leaders’ Identity Processes through the Use of Natural Language Processing’ by Dr. Matt Sjoberg (Business School)

3. ‘Molecular Windscreen Wipers to Mechanically Disrupt Bacterial Biofilms’ by Dr. Kate Leslie (Chemistry) and Dr. Joy Patterson (Biosciences)

These successful applicants will become IAS associate fellows, gaining mentorship and access to IAS events and resources throughout their project duration.

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this initiative a success. We are genuinely thrilled about the interest in our initiative and the high quality of the submitted projects. It reinforces our vision of establishing the IAS as a thriving hub for interdisciplinary research culture at Durham University, that accommodates early career researchers seeking support and collaborators across different fields, alongside with more established interdisciplinary university scholars and international fellows. We are excited about the future and anticipate organizing more such events.