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Supported by the RKEO team, the Postgraduate Researcher Summer Conference (PGRSC) 2026 took place on 16th-17th June, bringing together postgraduate researchers from across Middlesex University, our collaborative partner institutions and international campuses. This year's conference explored the theme "Shifting Landscapes of Research in Critical Times", encouraging reflection on how research can respond creatively and critically to contemporary global challenges and ‘wicked problems’ associated with life in the Anthropocene.

Chaired by Professors Jayne Osgood and Johan Siebers, alongside PhD candidates Ammara Abid and Sofia Atsopardi, the conference showcased the breadth and diversity of postgraduate research across disciplines and campuses. The programme featured 64 research presentations, keynote addresses from leading scholars including Professor Klaus Dodds, Associate Professor Han Sang Kim and Associate Professor Susan Hansen, as well as workshops, discussions and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Professor Jayne Osgood stepped in to deliver a Keynote Lecture due to the unforeseen absence of a Keynote Speaker. The various contributions to this year’s conference generated a lively atmosphere, offering a much needed space to gather and share across the PGR community.

A highlight of PGRSC 2026 was the roundtable panel chaired by Professor Kate Maguire, bringing together researchers whose work spans professional studies, social research, creative practice, academic librarianship, childhood studies, inclusion and leadership. The discussion explored how diverse and transdisciplinary approaches can respond to complex contemporary challenges, emphasising the role of creativity, lived experience and critical inquiry in shaping impactful doctoral research.

Approximately 70 participants attended the first day in person at the Hendon campus, with around 100 attendees joining the second day online. The conference provided a supportive and stimulating environment for researchers to share work in progress, exchange ideas, build networks and contribute to a vibrant postgraduate research community.

PGRSC continues to be a significant event in the Middlesex University PGRs calendar, celebrating the impactful work of our postgraduate researchers and reinforcing Middlesex University's commitment to research that addresses the complex challenges of a rapidly changing world.

On behalf of the Conference Chairs, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of PGRSC 2026, including presenters, attendees, session chairs, keynote speakers, panel members, organisers and colleagues who supported the event. Most importantly, congratulations to the postgraduate researchers who participated over the two days. Your enthusiasm, creativity and commitment to research, made the conference a truly collegial experience. Through sharing ideas, engaging in discussion and building new connections, you have strengthened our vibrant PGRs community and demonstrated the valuable contribution of postgraduate researchers’ at Middlesex University.

Thank you for your support of the Postgraduate Researchers’ Summer Conference 2026. We wish all our postgraduate researchers and staff an enjoyable summer and look forward to welcoming you back to next year's conference.