Newsroom University of �鶹��ý

Iran’s history has been blighted by interference from foreign powers

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 15:28:57 +0100

Israel’s recent surprise attack on Iran was ostensibly aimed at neutralising Iran’s nuclear programme, but it didn’t just damage nuclear installations. It killed scientists, engineers and senior military personnel.

Meanwhile, with no ties to the government or military, became “collateral damage”. For 11 days, Israel’s attacks intensified across Tehran and other major cities.

When the US joined the attack, dropping its bunker-buster bombs on sites in central Iran on June 21, it threatened to push the region closer to . Israel’s calls for regime change in Iran were joined by the US president, Donald Trump, who took to social media on June 22 : “if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!”

Trump’s remarks are reminders of past US interventions. The threat of regime change by the most powerful state in the world carries particular weight in Iran, where memories of foreign-imposed coups and covert operations remain vivid and painful.

In the early 1890s, Iran was after the shah granted a British company exclusive rights to the country’s tobacco industry. The decision was greeted with anger and in 1891 the country’s senior cleric, Grand Ayatollah Mirza Shirazi, issued a fatwa against tobacco use.

A mass boycott ensued – even the shah’s wives reportedly gave up the habit. When it became clear that the boycott was going to hold, the shah cancelled the concession in January 1892. It was a clear demonstration of people power.

This event is thought to have played a significant role in the development of the revolutionary movement that led to the that took place between 1905 and 1911 and the establishment of a constitution and parliament in Iran.

Rise of the Pahlavis

Reza Shah, who founded the Pahlavi dynasty – which would be overthrown in the 1979 revolution and replaced by the Islamic Republic – rose to power following a British-supported coup in 1921.

During the first world war, foreign interference . In 1921, with British support, army officer Reza Khan and politician Seyyed Ziaeddin Tabatabaee . Claiming to be acting to save the monarchy, they arrested key opponents. By 1923, Reza Khan had become prime minister.

In 1925, Reza Khan unseated the Qajars and , becoming Reza Shah Pahlavi. This was a turning point in Iran’s history, marking the start of British dominance. The shah’s authoritarian rule focused on centralisation, modernisation and secularisation. It set the stage for the factors that would that eventually lead to the 1979 Revolution.

In 1941, concerned at the close relationship Pahlavi had developed with Nazi Germany, Britain and its allies once again intervened in Iranian politics, . He was exiled to South Africa and his 22-year-old son, Mohammad Reza, in his place.

The 1953 coup

Mohammad Mosaddegh became Iran’s in 1951. He quickly began to introduce reforms and challenge the authority of the shah. Despite a sustained campaign of destabilisation, Mossadegh retained a high level of popular support, which he used to push through his radical programme. This included the , which was effectively controlled by the Anglo-Persian Oil Company – later British Petroleum (BP).

In 1953, he was ousted in a and placed under house arrest. The shah, who had fled to Italy during the unrest, returned to power with western support.

Within a short time, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi established that governed through repression and intimidation. He outlawed all opposition parties, and numerous activists involved in the oil nationalisation movement were either imprisoned or forced into exile.

The 1979 revolution: the oppression continues

The shah’s rule became increasingly authoritarian and was also marked by the lavish lifestyles of the ruling elite and increasing poverty of the mass of the Iranian people. Pahlavi increasingly relied on his secret police, the Bureau for Intelligence and Security of the State.

Meanwhile, a scholar and Islamic cleric named Ruhollah Khomeini, had been rising in prominence especially after 1963, when Pahlavi’s unpopular land reforms mobilised a large section of society against his rule. His growing prominence brought him into confrontation with the government and in 1964 he was sent into exile. He remained abroad, living in Turkey, Iraq and France.

By 1978 a diverse alliance primarily made up of urban working and middle-class citizens had paralysed the country. While united in their resistance to the monarchy, participants were driven by a variety of ideological beliefs, including socialism, communism, liberalism, secularism, Islamism and nationalism. The shah fled into exile on January 16 1979 and Khomeini returned to Iran, which in March became an Islamic Republic with Khomeini at its head.

But the US was not finished in its attempts to destabilise Iran. In 1980, Washington backed Saddam Hussein in initiating a , which claimed hundreds of thousands of Iranian lives and severely disrupted the country’s efforts at political and economic reconstruction.

Iran and the US have remained bitter foes. Over the years ordinary Iranians have suffered tremendously under rounds of US-imposed , which have all but destroyed the economy in recent years.

This new wave of foreign aggression has arrived at a time of significant domestic unrest within Iran. Since the protests, which began in September 2022 after the death of Mahsa Amini at the hands of the morality police, there has been a general groundswell of demand for social justice and democracy.

But the convergence of external aggression and internal demands has brought national sovereignty and self-determination to the forefront, as it did during previous major struggles. While world powers gamble with Iran’s future, it is the Iranian people through their struggles and unwavering push for justice and democracy who must determine the country’s future.

, Senior Lecturer in Sociology,
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .

Iran’s history has been blighted by interference from foreign powers

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:15:53 +0100

Meanwhile, with no ties to the government or military, became “collateral damage”. For 11 days, Israel’s attacks intensified across Tehran and other major cities.

When the US joined the attack, dropping its bunker-buster bombs on sites in central Iran on June 21, it threatened to push the region closer to . Israel’s calls for regime change in Iran were joined by the US president, Donald Trump, who took to social media on June 22 : “if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change??? MIGA!!!”

Trump’s remarks are reminders of past US interventions. The threat of regime change by the most powerful state in the world carries particular weight in Iran, where memories of foreign-imposed coups and covert operations remain vivid and painful.

In the early 1890s, Iran was after the shah granted a British company exclusive rights to the country’s tobacco industry. The decision was greeted with anger and in 1891 the country’s senior cleric, Grand Ayatollah Mirza Shirazi, issued a fatwa against tobacco use.

A mass boycott ensued – even the shah’s wives reportedly gave up the habit. When it became clear that the boycott was going to hold, the shah cancelled the concession in January 1892. It was a clear demonstration of people power.

This event is thought to have played a significant role in the development of the revolutionary movement that led to the that took place between 1905 and 1911 and the establishment of a constitution and parliament in Iran.

Rise of the Pahlavis

Reza Shah, who founded the Pahlavi dynasty – which would be overthrown in the 1979 revolution and replaced by the Islamic Republic – rose to power following a British-supported coup in 1921.

During the first world war, foreign interference . In 1921, with British support, army officer Reza Khan and politician Seyyed Ziaeddin Tabatabaee . Claiming to be acting to save the monarchy, they arrested key opponents. By 1923, Reza Khan had become prime minister.

In 1925, Reza Khan unseated the Qajars and , becoming Reza Shah Pahlavi. This was a turning point in Iran’s history, marking the start of British dominance. The shah’s authoritarian rule focused on centralisation, modernisation and secularisation. It set the stage for the factors that would that eventually lead to the 1979 Revolution.

In 1941, concerned at the close relationship Pahlavi had developed with Nazi Germany, Britain and its allies once again intervened in Iranian politics, . He was exiled to South Africa and his 22-year-old son, Mohammad Reza, in his place.

The 1953 coup

Mohammad Mosaddegh became in 1951. He quickly began to introduce reforms and challenge the authority of the shah. Despite a sustained campaign of destabilisation, Mossadegh retained a high level of popular support, which he used to push through his radical programme. This included the , which was effectively controlled by the Anglo-Persian Oil Company – later British Petroleum (BP).

In 1953, he was ousted in a and placed under house arrest. The shah, who had fled to Italy during the unrest, returned to power with western support.

Within a short time, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi established that governed through repression and intimidation. He outlawed all opposition parties, and numerous activists involved in the oil nationalisation movement were either imprisoned or forced into exile.

Read more:

The 1979 revolution: the oppression continues

Meanwhile, a scholar and Islamic cleric named Ruhollah Khomeini, had been rising in prominence especially after 1963, when Pahlavi’s unpopular land reforms mobilised a large section of society against his rule. His growing prominence brought him into confrontation with the government and in 1964 he was sent into exile. He remained abroad, living in Turkey, Iraq and France.

By 1978 a diverse alliance primarily made up of urban working and middle-class citizens had paralysed the country. While united in their resistance to the monarchy, participants were driven by a variety of ideological beliefs, including socialism, communism, liberalism, secularism, Islamism and nationalism. The shah fled into exile on January 16 1979 and Khomeini returned to Iran, which in March became an Islamic Republic with Khomeini at its head.

But the US was not finished in its attempts to destabilise Iran. In 1980, Washington backed Saddam Hussein in initiating a , which claimed hundreds of thousands of Iranian lives and severely disrupted the country’s efforts at political and economic reconstruction.

Iran and the US have remained bitter foes. Over the years ordinary Iranians have suffered tremendously under rounds of US-imposed , which have all but destroyed the economy in recent years.

This new wave of foreign aggression has arrived at a time of significant domestic unrest within Iran. Since the protests, which began in September 2022 after the death of Mahsa Amini at the hands of the morality police, there has been a general groundswell of demand for social justice and democracy.

From Idea to Impact: Politics Student recognised for social innovation

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 11:59:33 +0100

The School of Social Sciences is proud to announce that one of our BSocSc Politics and International Relations students, Derry Duffy, has been awarded a prize in the Social Category of the Venture Further Awards 2025, at which the (MEC), at �鶹��ý, celebrated 25 years of enterprise education helping students launch impactful ventures. The event showcases the depth of entrepreneurial talent emerging from �鶹��ý.

Derry Duffy and a co-founder, Herbie Warner (a Theoretical Physics graduate) created ‘Cause’, the first online giving platform built specifically for small charities, making it easier for them to connect with donors, raise funds, and grow. Cause removes the barriers that small charities face when fundraising such as high advertising costs, low visibility and lack of digital expertise. Through the ‘app’, donors and charities can easily connect, either organically through data driven recommendations or through affordable, accessible and targeted marketing. Allowing small charities to have maximum impact is central to the mission of the ‘app’ so there are no platform fees or fees on donations for donors or small charities.

In Derry’s summer after his first year at university, he became aware of how the coming Cost of Living Crisis was likely to affect people, especially those who were already facing fuel and food insecurity. In response he thought it would be a good idea to set up a charity to support people in �鶹��ý through the Winter. However, the issue he couldn’t find an answer to was how to connect with local donors. He assumed a platform where small charities and local donors could connect would exist but it didn’t. Derry and co-founder Herbie decided to create that platform, an ‘app’ that allows donors to find small charities that are doing work close to their hearts.

Derry reflects on receiving the award:

SoSS professor to Chair working group reviewing 14-day rule for human embryo research

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 10:13:22 +0100

Sarah Devaney, Professor of Healthcare Law and Regulation, has been announced by Nuffield Council on Bioethics (NCOB) as Chair of its working group for a project reviewing the 14-day rule for human embryo research. The current law means that human embryos can only be cultured in a UK laboratory for a maximum of 14 days, but scientists suggest that by extending this, we could gain a better understanding of healthy development and miscarriages.

Sarah will work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary group to provide decision-makers with the independent evidence they need to better understand arguments for and against extensions to the 14-day limit on human embryo research. The project, which is funded by a grant from Wellcome, will consist of four phases and will result in insights intended to support government in making evidence-based decisions on whether to review the current law.

The project will be completed in approximately 18 months and any insights will be shared as they are gathered.

From the Classroom to a Calling: How a Miscarriages of Justice module sparked a student’s passion for reform

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:58:36 +0100

When Professor re-designed the Miscarriages of Justice undergraduate module with Suzanne Gower, they did so with a clear purpose: to bring the law to life through real-world stories and to inspire students to think critically and compassionately about the justice system. But even they could not have anticipated the profound ripple effects that the assignments would create.

As part of the module’s assessment, Claire invited students to explore the theme of wrongful convictions in a creative format. One student, Fatin Najwa Fadzli, deeply moved by what they had learned, chose to create a video blog (vlog) and dedicated it to , a former sub-postmaster who had been wrongly convicted during the infamous Post Office Horizon scandal.

Tom had previously visited the module to speak candidly to students about the devastating impact of being wrongly accused, tried, and convicted. His honesty, humility, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone in the room. But for this student, Tom’s story did more than resonate, it sparked a calling.

The vlog was a heartfelt tribute, not just to Tom’s personal resilience but to the broader need for justice, reform, and accountability. Moved by the student's dedication, Claire reached out to Tom to share the vlog and the powerful message behind it. True to the compassionate spirit that defines him, Tom responded by writing a personal letter to the student, thanking them, encouraging them, and reminding them that their voice matters in the ongoing fight for justice.

That one moment, a connection between a student, a teacher, and a survivor of injustice, may have changed the student’s life. Inspired by both the academic experience and Tom’s courage, the student is now considering pursuing a , aiming to become part of the next generation of legal professionals working to prevent such tragedies from ever happening again. This would of course be alongside Najwas national team ice hockey appearances!

This is more than just a story of one student and one assignment. It is a reminder of the extraordinary power of education when it is rooted in empathy, real-world relevance, and human connection. It shows the importance of giving students the space to respond creatively and emotionally to the law and how, in doing so, they may just find their life’s purpose.

Professor Claire McGourlay continues to lead the way in innovative legal education, but stories like this remind us that her true legacy lies not only in curriculum design, but in the lives Claire shapes, one student, one story, one act of justice at a time.

Claire McGourlay reflects:

University of �鶹��ý team wins BISA 2025 EDI prize for Decolonial Praxis Project

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 14:07:24 +0100

The (BISA) has recognised �鶹��ý’s outstanding commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) by awarding its 2025 EDI Prize to a team of staff members whose work has significantly advanced inclusive practices in international studies.

The award was presented during the BISA 2025 annual conference, held in Belfast, and celebrates initiatives that have made a tangible impact on fostering inclusive academic environments. �鶹��ý team who received the EDI prize consisted of , (both from the Politics department) and (Sociology department).

The Decolonial Praxis project, that the awardees co-lead, challenges colonial legacies in Higher Education, while ensuring a more ethical and social justice-oriented approach to international partnerships. It is a transformative initiative that embodies the principles of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). Its working method is to evolve the approach in collaboration with colleagues from other universities (so far that includes universities of Ghana, Nairobi and Pretoria).

The initiative has sought to rethink modes of decolonising by including a wider range of participant: students, staff including academics and research support staff, and artivists. It convened at the universities but also in local communities and art-spaces giving importance to locally produced knowledge and knowledge-practice.

Over the last two years, activities have included mapping courses and degree programmes to highlight the ways in which structural inequalities persist as an evidence base to drive change within our School. Moreover, by engaging with colleagues from other universities and across disciplinary boundaries (in Nairobi the Faculty of Education; in Ghana the Interdisciplinary Institute for African Studies and in Pretoria the Department of Politics), the initiative has facilitated peer learning with implications for critical pedagogy, research and research support.

This initiative enhances diversity by amplifying marginalised voices and perspectives, through collaborative workshops and knowledge exchange. Through this initiative the project created an important space for critical dialogue and co-production of tools that advance decolonial praxis. This approach not only validates Indigenous knowledge but also ensures its relevance to socio-economic and cultural contexts, promoting sustainable development. The project’s long-term impact is secured through the ongoing development of a decolonial archive, and a number of publications.

This recognition underscores �鶹��ý’s leadership in social responsibility and its commitment to inclusive excellence in higher education. The project has been funded by the International Science Partnerships scheme and the Faculty of Humanities at �鶹��ý.

Leadership Behind Bars: A New Vision for Justice Reform Emerges from the Inside Out

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 14:50:00 +0100

On Monday, 16 June, the House of Commons hosted a groundbreaking event titled “Prisoner Leadership, Meaning, Value, and Role in Justice Reform,” co-organised by (Senior Lecturer in , University of �鶹��ý), , and . The panel brought together lived experience leaders, MPs, academics, and justice professionals to explore how leadership within prisons can reshape the future of justice in the UK.

Centred around the newly published book (Palgrave Macmillan), the event challenged traditional notions of leadership by highlighting the often-unrecognised influence of incarcerated individuals. These leaders, shaped by survival and solidarity rather than hierarchy, offer critical insights into reforming a prison system in crisis.

Guest speaker (former Professor, University of �鶹��ý) underscored the importance of recognising lived experience as a legitimate and powerful form of knowledge. The event called for a shift from tokenistic inclusion to genuine collaboration across sectors—between academics, policymakers, and those directly impacted by incarceration.

The organisers emphasised that real reform must be rooted in humility, shared leadership, and a commitment to justice that listens to those who have lived it.

The visit resulted in MPs and Justice Select Committee representatives asking that the presented Policy recommendations based on the book’s findings be translated into law, illustrating how research-led impact can emerge in decision-making spaces.

Learn more about how Prisoner Leadership is reimagining justice from the inside out in our latest .

Postgraduate student wins MDC Excellence Award for Local Community Impact

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 11:00:00 +0100

Megan Hadfield, a PhD student in Criminology, was honoured for her work with the , a �鶹��ý-based organisation supporting people experiencing homelessness. Megan has been volunteering at the Centre since 2019, and her long-standing commitment has evolved into a pioneering initiative that has already made a tangible difference.

While serving on the Centre’s Board of Trustees, Megan identified a communication gap affecting service users whose first language is not English. Drawing on her role within the School of Social Sciences’ Social Responsibility Committee, she proposed a new volunteer project specifically for individuals with second-language skills. With the committee’s backing and in collaboration with the Booth Centre, the pilot programme launched in 2024.

Megan has played a key role in coordinating between the University and the Centre – scheduling training, creating information sheets and leaflets and setting up volunteer recruitment. “It has been a pleasure to help with this, and I can already start to see the incredible impact it has had,” she said. “The Booth Centre is such a wonderful organisation and benefits the wider community, so anything I can do, however small, to help them help others, I’ll do it.”

Reflecting on the award, Megan said:

Megan received her award at the MDC Excellence Awards ceremony, which took place on Tuesday 17th June. The event celebrated the exceptional contributions of postgraduate researchers across the University, and Megan’s recognition highlights the power of community-focused research and the meaningful impact students can have beyond academia.

New report shows a ‘dose response’ relationship between racism and poor mental health

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 17:30:00 +0100

A new report titled investigates how experiencing racial discrimination affects mental health, both directly and indirectly.

It finds a ‘dose-response relationship’ between racial discrimination and poor mental health (ie the negative impact on mental health increased with increasing number of times and areas in which racism was experienced).

The authors also examine the impact of experiencing racism over many years. Recent experiences of racial discrimination (within the past 5 years only) had a stronger effect on mental health compared to experiences of racial discrimination that happened over five years ago. Chronic experiences of racial discrimination over someone’s life (both past and recent experiences) had the strongest effect on mental health.

Drawing on data from , the largest and most comprehensive survey to document the lives of ethnic and religious minorities in Britain during the pandemic, the report also shows how experiences of racial discrimination were associated with testing positive for COVID-19, financial concerns, feelings of loneliness, and a reduced sense of belonging. Racial discrimination also indirectly contributed to poor mental health, through these experiences.

The report is written by Patricia Irizar, Dharmi Kapadia, Harry Taylor, Gertrude Wafula, Albert Kwansa, Charles Kwaku-Odoi, Laia Bécares and Srinivasa Vittal Katikireddi.

This report summarises published in 'Sociology of Health & Illness' (open access).

Student app designed to bridge the life skills gap shortlisted for national award

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 14:30:00 +0100

The award-nominated student app, Clarify, assists those aged 16-24 in navigating essential life skills including financial literacy, legal awareness, career readiness and day-to-day adult responsibilities.

The three BA (Econ) students, Irene Madu, Vania Ahiakwo and Sonia (Germaine) Garba Enyai, worked on the app alongside their studies to create a supportive resource for young people.

They said: “At the start, we were just bouncing around ideas between lectures, trying to find common ground on something we believed could actually make a difference. Building Clarify meant juggling exams, research projects, and tight deadlines — but we kept pushing.

Drawing insights from a recent Santander finding that 79% of young people report feeling unprepared for financial realities, the app offers courses, videos and features on taxes, pensions, warranties and other areas often underrepresented in traditional education.

The Clarify team added: “Many lack knowledge about legal rights or how to access help. We've spoken with peers, surveyed students, and collaborated with professionals — all pointing to the same insight: there’s a clear, urgent demand for accessible, inclusive life-readiness education.”

The app team is currently inviting students to and help shape the platform into a meaningful and accessible resource for young people across the UK.

Working with Qualitative Interview Data: Themes and Beyond

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 15:27:29 +0100

Ever painted your interview data?

Me neither, but that’s where we ended up in this recent innovative and energising session with , a Sociologist of Everyday Life and a member of the .

We started the session with a useful but whistle stop tour of thematic analysis, which set the scene for a reflection on what is really meant by themes in the interpretation of data, and how this process might change if we allow for a more reflexive approach which allows us to consider more carefully the ways we ‘work’ with data and our emotional connections with that data.

According to Andy, data is lively, and opening up to that liveliness entails recognising data’s many shapes and forms, rather than the ‘straight lines’ of themes so beloved of procedural-focused approaches to analysis, and the ways that we ‘live with’ data in our everyday lives as researchers.

The workshop then moved on to a practical encounter with our data through painting on our transcripts or making data poetry with them.

Whether used as an end in itself or a tool to see data differently, perhaps surmounting an interpretation impasse, 38 workshop attendees eagerly embraced brush strokes and poetry. Analysis and interpretation were re-imagined and re-shaped, our data came alive, we read and saw it differently.

You can find out more about Andy’s ‘painting with data’ technique in and I will be eagerly awaiting the Morgan Centre book due to hit the shelves in Autumn, which Andy is co-authoring with Morgan Centre colleagues (Sophie Woodward, James Fletcher, James Hodgson and Jess Mancuso).

In the meantime you could satisfy your creative thirst with the Morgan Centre’s ‘creative approaches to qualitative research’ course, but do hurry as we are at near -full capacity!

Methods@�鶹��ý workshops and activities

To keep up-to-date with Methods@�鶹��ý events and activities see our and do let us know if there are particular innovative and advanced methodological approaches you would like to suggest for inclusion in next year’s workshop programme.

New Publication in Policy Studies Journal

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 11:30:00 +0100

Policy subsystems are comprised of competing advocacy coalitions, in which public and private political actors with shared belief systems learn from each other and coordinate their strategies in the pursuit of influencing policy making in their favour.

While numerous studies have focused on the longevity and structural stability of advocacy coalitions, there is scant theory and evidence on how nascent policy subsystems bifurcate into stable, competing coalitions.

This article proposes a three-stage model of problem discovery, differentiation, and consolidation.

We apply discourse network analysis to the nascent subsystem of the UK's COVID-19 response in order to study these phases and discuss their applicability and implications for other institutional and issue contexts.

Remembering Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o: A legacy of decolonisation

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 09:00:00 +0100

The School of Social Sciences would like to extend heartful condolences to the family, friends and colleagues on the passing of . Ngũgĩ was an esteemed Kenyan author and academic who has been described as East Africa’s leading novelist and important figures in African literature.

Born in 1938 in the ‘white’ highlands of Kenya - the heart of the colonised landscape - the colonial regime shaped his family’s life. His lifelong dedication as a scholar and activist has left an indelible mark on the global decolonisation movement, particularly for the African diaspora.

Since 1964, he was honoured with numerous awards, honorary doctorates and prizes in recognition of his enduring efforts against the adverse impacts of colonisation. He was one of the few remaining scholars and activists whose work defines the grand eras of decolonisation of the African and global diasporic mind.

Our School was fortunate to host Professor wa Thiogn’o when he delivered our prestigious annual Arthur Lewis lecture in October 2023. This series of lectures commenced in 2015 to mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of the economist Arthur Lewis, who became Britain’s first black professor when he was appointed as a professor at the University of �鶹��ý in 1948.

In his lecture, chaired by , Ngũgĩ discussed the harms caused by imperialism and colonialisation, focusing on their lasting impact on native languages, African knowledge, memory, the environment and human rights. The lecture was then followed by a conversation with Esther Stanford-Xosei, community advocate and international expert on reparatory justice, addressing African-centred solutions to these lasting legacies. The event was attended by over 500 people – a recording of the event can be located on our .

The day after the lecture, Professor wa Thiong’o discussed the importance of continuing decolonial and reparatory work with colleagues from our School, guests from our partner institution, the University of Nairobi, and local community leaders. Particular emphasis was given to the role universities have in continuing decolonial work and building equitable partnerships. His visit also marked an important moment in School’s formal collaborations with African universities.

For example, the (ISPF (ODA) funded project on Decolonial Knowledge Production in HE and the British Academy funded project (EP for AfRICa) contributes to the school's approach. EP for AfRICa in particular acknowledges that all partner universities bring unique perspectives and can learn from one another.

Through joint learning, peer exchange, and inclusive institutional strategies, partner universities are building capacity across the entire research lifecycle. By centering equity and local ownership, the initiative aims to reshape international collaboration into a model of co-leadership and long-term adaptability.

Creative �鶹��ý Celebrates Summer Solstice with programme of special events at Jodrell Bank

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 14:52:22 +0100

As part of this collaboration Creative �鶹��ý are curating the programme of the afternoon and evening on 20 June, to take place at Jodrell Bank. After a morning in �鶹��ý, conference attendees travel to Jodrell Bank in the idyllic Chesire countryside with an afternoon of sessions on �鶹��ý’s musical history featuring University of �鶹��ý experts.

The day concludes with Creative �鶹��ý’s Solstice and Equinox event and an exclusive DJ set by Jazzie B himself.

The summer solstice event brings together two remarkable cultural figures against the backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Jodrell Bank, home to the iconic Lovell telescope. This unique combination of research and public engagement events contributes to Creative �鶹��ý's ongoing mission to foster dialogue between different creative disciplines and cultural perspectives.

The conversation, chaired by Dr Sophie Everest, Lecturer in Film Practice and Filmmaker, will explore the intersections of music, history, and cultural heritage in a setting of scientific discovery and innovation.

Coach transport to and from Jodrell Bank and admission to the Solstice and Equinox event are included in the conference ticket.

Celebrating Jazzie B's legacy

Trevor Beresford Romeo OBE, known as Jazzie B, is a DJ, music producer, entrepreneur and founding member of the iconic music collective, Soul II Soul. Born in London to parents of Antiguan descent, Jazzie began DJing in the 1980s on pirate radio and holding parties adapting the reggae sound system. This evolved into the formation of the Soul II Soul Collective and signature sound, a number one single, global success, two Grammy Awards, and the sale of millions of records.

Soul II Soul and Jazzie B have left an indelible mark on British culture, not only through their music but also via legendary club nights, fashion lines, retail ventures, and radio shows on both pirate station Kiss FM and the BBC. Jazzie was awarded an OBE in 2008, and in 2024, Soul II Soul received the MOBO Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of an enduring impact on British music and culture.

Archival Collaboration with �鶹��ý

The event is part of an ongoing collaboration between Jazzie B and researchers at �鶹��ý, who are working together to document his extensive personal archive. This archival project represents an important effort to preserve and study the cultural impact of Soul II Soul and the broader musical and cultural movements they influenced.

Following their conversation, the evening will culminate in a special DJ set from Jazzie B himself, bringing his signature sound to the First Light Pavilion—a rare opportunity to experience his musical artistry in such a unique scientific setting.

The Solstice and Equinox Series: Bridging Arts and Sciences

The evening event is part of Creative �鶹��ý's Solstice and Equinox series, which brings innovative creative artists to �鶹��ý's four Cultural Institutions. Each of our unique cultural institutions – the Whitworth, the John Rylands Research Institute and Library, �鶹��ý Museum and Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre – focus on building civic, national and international partnerships to advance the social, environmental and individual wellbeing of our communities.

�鶹��ý researchers appointed to lead REF 2029 sub-panels

Wed, 28 May 2025 12:49:08 +0100

Two �鶹��ý researchers have been appointed to lead REF 2029 sub-panels.

will chair the Sociology panel and has been appointed deputy chair of the Music, Drama, Dance, Performing Arts, Film and Screen Studies panel.

They will lead their units of assessment through the criteria setting phase, beginning later this year, and on through to the final assessment.

Their appointments take the total number of University colleagues with REF 2029 roles to eight.

Six colleagues are members to the REF People, Culture and Environment (PCE) pilot panels:

, Professor of Health Sciences, for Unit of Assessment 3 – Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy;
, Professor of Inclusive Researcher and Academic Development, for Unit of Assessment 5 – Biological Sciences;
, Professor of Medical Biophysics, for Unit of Assessment 11 – Computer Science and Informatics;
, Research Culture and Assessment Manager, for Unit of Assessment 17 – Business and Management Studies;
, Vice-Dean Research, Humanities and Chair in Drama, for Unit of Assessment 28 – History;
, Senior Lecturer in Theatre and Performance, for Unit of Assessment 33 – Music, Drama, Dance, Performing Arts, Film and Screen Studies, as well as her new deputy chair role.

In October, , Professor in Global Politics, was appointed to the REF People and Diversity Advisory Panel, while Dr Cathal Rogers, Research Culture and Assessment Manager, was .

Vice-President for Research, Professor Colette Fagan said:

REF Director Rebecca Fairbairn said:

Further information

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is the UK’s system for assessing the excellence of research in UK higher education institutions (HEIs). The REF outcomes are used to inform the allocation of around £2 billion per year of public funding for universities’ research. The REF is a process of expert review, carried out by sub-panels focused on subject-based units of assessment, under the guidance of overarching main panels and advisory panels.

To find out more, visit:

BAFTA success for University of �鶹��ý alumnus Rob Rinder

Tue, 27 May 2025 15:52:53 +0100

We are delighted to congratulate , University of �鶹��ý alumnus, on winning the for his BBC series Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour, co-hosted with Rylan Clark.

The award-winning series follows the pair as they retrace the steps of the Grand Tour across Europe, exploring art, culture, and identity with warmth and wit. The programme has been praised for its engaging storytelling and emotional depth, earning widespread acclaim and now, one of television’s highest honours.

Rob Rinder studied at the University of �鶹��ý, graduating with a double first in Politics and Modern History, a joint honours degree spanning both the and the . His academic achievements laid the foundation for a distinguished career in law, broadcasting, and public engagement.

The success of Rob and Rylan’s Grand Tour has seen it renewed for a second series, where the duo will travel to India and retrace the steps of Rob’s favourite author E.M. Forster.

We are proud to celebrate this achievement and to count Rob among our inspiring alumni.

New publication in Decisions in Economics and Finance

Fri, 23 May 2025 14:36:37 +0100

Our colleagues, Eduardo Fé & Mario Pezzino, have published a study in Decisions in Economics and Finance. Read the paper: .

Co-creation - where students help design teaching materials - has clear short-term benefits for engagement and soft skill development. But our new research shows it also creates powerful intertemporal peer effects: students exposed to co-created materials become more motivated, feel part of a learning community, and are more likely to co-create themselves.

We develop a dynamic model of how co-created resources influence student effort over time and test this through a behavioral experiment in an intermediate microeconomics course. The results suggest that co-creation not only deepens learning, but can gradually reshape education culture—boosting what we call "education morale."

Findings

Co-creation promotes responsibility, reciprocity, and intrinsic motivation
Exposure to peer-created materials increases future engagement
Even small interventions (e.g., emails from former students) can create measurable, lasting effects.

Head of SoSS Claire Alexander receives Distinguished Service to British Sociology award

Thu, 22 May 2025 15:44:52 +0100

Claire Alexander, Head of SoSS and Professor of Social Sciences, received the annual Distinguished Service to British Sociology Award from the BSA at its annual conference held at the University on 23-25 April 2025.

The is judged on service to British sociology and was given to Claire for her outstanding contributions to the discipline and extraordinary life as a sociologist, having researched and published on race, ethnicity, youth and migration in the UK for over thirty years.

Claire’s work has been centrally concerned with understanding and challenging racial and ethnic inequalities in Britain, and she has been researching Black and Asian youth identities in Britain for over 25 years, from an ethnographic perspective.

In 2024, she completed , in which she re-interviewed the original participants of her 'Asian Gang' (2000) research, 15 years after the original ethnography.

Claire is also a member of the and a trustee of the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and Active Communities Network.

The conference celebrated the work of sociology and its positive influence on individual lives and social transformations, exploring the nature of and responses to local and global challenges and changes. It was attended by leading scholars who are passionate about understanding and influencing social change.

On receiving the award, Claire said:

Eight years after the arena attack, �鶹��ý bee commercialisation has unsettled some Mancunians

Thu, 22 May 2025 14:53:12 +0100

If you visit �鶹��ý, one of the first things you’ll notice is the great number of bee images throughout the city. Born in the Industrial Revolution, the “worker bee” symbol captured the city’s tireless spirit and its legacy as a buzzing hive of industry. Today, the symbol is more often associated with collective resilience and remembrance following the �鶹��ý Arena attack on May 22 2017.

The bee became a of the “Mancunian spirit”, emerging almost instantly on murals, on bodies as tattoos and on public memorials. Over the last eight years, it has become a core part of �鶹��ý’s identity.

As part of my ongoing PhD research, I set out to understand why the bee is everywhere in �鶹��ý and what it means to people. I interviewed 24 Mancunians who were living in the city at the time of the attack, including some who were directly affected.

Conducted in 2023, seven years after the attack, these interviews aimed to capture how the symbol’s meaning had evolved as the city continued to process and commemorate the event.

For many, the bee still stands as a symbol of resilience, a reminder of how the city came together in the face of tragedy. But for others, its presence throughout �鶹��ý has become more of a burden than a comfort.

Appearing on buses, shop windows and public spaces, it serves as a constant and eerie reminder of the events and aftermath of the attack. Eight of my interviewees described these as memories of “trauma”. Over time, what once felt comforting has become more unsettling.

Fifteen of my interviewees expressed discomfort with how the bee has become more commercialised in the years since the attack. Some described feelings of “exploitation”.

Both independent businesses and large companies have embraced the symbol, integrating it into their branding in public spaces. Many sell bee-themed gifts and souvenirs, such as .

�鶹��ý city council has played a key role in this commercialisation, promoting the image through various initiatives, including the Bee Network transport system and the Bee Cup – a reusable launched in 2023.

In June 2017, shortly after the attack, the council moved to trademark several versions of the bee as an official city symbol. This was made public in March 2018, after the period for .

Initially, the council allowed people and businesses to use the symbol for free, but later introduced a . Now, anyone wishing to use the of the bee must apply for permission from the council, and commercial use comes with a £500 fee. Businesses that want to use the bee are also asked to donate to charity.

The council described the trademarking of the bee symbol as a way to protect its use and support local good causes, such as the , which helps fund community projects and youth opportunities across the city.

But some of my participants noted that this transformed the bee from something personal and meaningful to something more corporate. In their view, it is as if the city itself is commodifying the attack rather than honouring it.

This can be viewed as an element of “dark tourism”, which involves visiting places where tragedy has been memorialised or commercialised. this manifests not through visits to the attack site but through the bee symbol, which has been commodified in murals, merchandise and public spaces. Tourists buy into collective grief through consumption, turning remembrance into a marketable experience and the bee as a managed and profitable commodity.

Some �鶹��ý Arena bombing survivors I spoke to feel that their personal grief has been repackaged into a public identity, one that does not necessarily reflect the complexity of their experiences.

The use of the bee in products and souvenirs raises questions about how the city commercialises its identity, especially when considering the layered histories that the symbol carries.

Uncomfortable history

For some, the discomfort around �鶹��ý’s bee goes even . Today, the bee symbolises resilience and unity, but it originally represented hard work during �鶹��ý’s industrial boom.

This era wasn’t just about progress — it also involved especially through cotton by enslaved people in the Americas. �鶹��ý’s role in the industrial revolution would have never been possible without slavery.

My participants pointed out this hidden history, noticing that these stories rarely appear in �鶹��ý’s public commemorations in the city. The bee’s visibility today reveals how cities tend to highlight positive histories, while uncomfortable truths .

A painted window in �鶹��ý’s Victoria station. Ashley Collar

Focusing solely on resilience risks creating a simplified version of �鶹��ý’s past. , overlooking how historical injustices, like the city’s links to the transatlantic slave trade, still shape their lives today.

This selective storytelling makes it harder for some communities to commemorate �鶹��ý’s identity. They can’t do so without acknowledging past legacies of slavery and the city’s history of division.

While some see the bee as a proud symbol of unity, others feel it erases their history. As the bee continues to dominate public spaces, �鶹��ý faces an important challenge: making sure this symbol genuinely acknowledges the varied experiences and histories of all residents.

This might be through dedicated plaques or exhibits that explore some of these hidden histories, and the bee’s complex meaning. Only by confronting its past can the city ensure that commemoration includes everyone.

, PhD Candidate in Sociology at �鶹��ý and Associate Lecturer in Criminology at MMU
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .

�鶹��ý research informs government Winter Fuel Payment changes

Wed, 21 May 2025 15:38:51 +0100

Ongoing research at �鶹��ý into the long-term poverty faced by many older people has contributed to the Government announcing changes to the Winter Fuel Payment today.

The payment is a welfare benefit previously paid directly to all pensioners to help with their fuel costs, which was restricted in 2024 to older people in receipt of Pension Credit.

An estimated 2.2 million (19%) of older people (aged 66 years and older) live in relative income poverty, and many have unmet care needs. 12% of older people live in persistent poverty. Evidence suggests that the changes to the Winter Fuel Payment were going to leave many more older people in poverty, which would put their health and well-being at risk.

As one research participant aged 79 commented: “May be some of us will die after the end of the Winter Fuel Payment. Like in the Covid pandemic, we don’t matter!”

Whilst the changes to the Winter Fuel Payment had led to an increase in applications for Pension Credit, many older people had still not made a claim. This is despite the fact that being awarded Pension Credit also gives access to a range of other welfare support.

A number of interlinked factors are associated with the lack of take-up of welfare benefits such as Pension Credit, including: awareness, not recognising being in need, fear and a lack of trust, the complexity of the application process, stigma and embarrassment and concerns about having money taken away.

In relation to claiming welfare benefits, one interviewee aged 74 stated: “I don’t like anyone thinking I’m on benefits.”

The research led by Dr Kingsley Purdam was presented to the Department for Work and Pensions earlier this year.

Affect Theatre: A Workshop at the Boundaries of Theatre and Anthropology

Wed, 21 May 2025 15:09:28 +0100

By Meghan Rose Donnelly (University of �鶹��ý) and Pete Carruthers (University of Central Lancashire)

Affect Theatre is an interdisciplinary method of research analysis and curation that decentres text and engages directly with the material elements of fieldwork.

A recent event introduced the method of Affect Theatre, offering a new way to engage with empirical research material, organised by researchers Meghan Rose Donnelly and Pete Carruthers, and led by the method’s creators, Cristiana Giordano and Greg Pierotti.

When writing up our fieldwork in academic outputs, it can be too easy to follow the conventions of text - and to lose some of the essential liveness of research along the way.

Affect Theatre is an interdisciplinary method of research analysis and curation that addresses this problem. By decentering text and engaging directly with the material elements of fieldwork—sounds, objects, lighting, dress, architecture, etc.—the method helps researchers explore the affective qualities of their subject matter, before boxing them into a linear analysis. Designed with anthropologists and ethnographers in mind, the method also provides a way for artists to create meaningful performances out of empirical research, true stories, and real people.

The workshop

In March 2025, participants in �鶹��ý had the opportunity to experiment with Affect Theatre in a workshop led by the method’s creators: Cristiana Giordano and Greg Pierotti.

Giordanno and Pierotti have been for over a decade to develop the method, presenting workshops around the world and producing two full-length plays (one on police violence in the US and another on illicit migration into Italy). on the method was recently published with Bloomsbury.

Over 3 days in �鶹��ý, Giordano and Pierotti walked participants—researchers and students, anthropologists and artists—through the steps of Affect Theatre. Participants created short theatrical ‘episodes’ highlighting the affective and material qualities of research elements. How does a scarf sound when you snap it through the air? How does light shift from warm to cool on a person’s skin?

After being presented to the group, each episode was then analysed both for its affective qualities and for the kinds of stories it seemed to tell.

On the final day of the workshop, participants began to join multiple episodes together to make short sequences that transitioned into each other.

They also added another level of detail and context by having Meghan Rose read out small sections of text from her field notes, relating to her anthropological research on the lives of Catholic nuns on the Indonesian island of Flores. In the photos you can see the participants working in small groups to create one of these sequences.

The first episode was connected to a description of nuns at evening prayer, where some of the nuns had a fit of giggles whilst ‘praying the rosary’.

The three panel lights and the Indonesian scarves, brought by Meghan Rose to the workshop, were used to create a sense of ritual, structure and repetition, evoking the formality and choreography of the liturgy, contrasting against the giggles of the nuns.

This episode transitioned to another previously unrelated episode, which the group connected to an extract from a story about a trip to the beach, where the nuns were required to cover their heads as they watched children splashing in the sea.

Feedback from attendees of the full workshop, as well as from those who only attended the masterclass at the end of day 3, was universally positive, with many people expressing a desire to learn more about the Affect Theatre method and apply it to their own research in the future.

Here are just a few examples of the written and verbal feedback from the workshop:

What’s next?

The workshop on Affect Theatre galvanised the University of �鶹��ý’s anthropology department’s research focus on performance and highlighted the interest in interdisciplinary methods between anthropology and drama amongst researchers and students across the North West. We can expect future explorations, including a longer workshop, next academic year when Giordano returns to �鶹��ý as a Simon Visiting Professor.

Participants in the workshop are already beginning to work Affect Theatre into their projects, including a Masters’ project on taxi drivers in �鶹��ý, a PhD engaged research project on mental health training for nurses, and a faculty-led collaborative project bringing ethnographic research to the stage. You can catch that show, .

Meghan Rose and Pete will reflect on the workshop at a as well as in the School of Social Sciences (SoSS) Scholarship Showcase on 25 June. Come along to find out more and to register your interest in future workshops.

To find out more about methods@manchester and connect with us, visit our or email methods@manchester.ac.uk.

�鶹��ý becomes a Policing Academic Centre of Excellence

Wed, 21 May 2025 10:35:37 +0100

�鶹��ý has been officially recognised as one of the UK’s new Policing Academic Centres of Excellence (PACE) as part of a national initiative to embed world-class research into frontline policing and community safety.

The M-PACE centre will be led jointly by experts from �鶹��ý and �鶹��ý Metropolitan University, in partnership with local police, community groups and industry. It is one of nine PACE hubs launched across the UK by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in a bid to transform how policing tackles today’s complex challenges.

Backed by funding from the NPCC and UKRI, the centres will become long-term drivers of innovation - giving police forces across the UK access to cutting-edge research and practical expertise in everything from crime prevention and digital policing to ethics and public trust.

Unlike traditional academic centres, PACE hubs are designed to work hand-in-hand with police services to co-develop research that responds to real-world problems - from improving how crimes are investigated, to tackling violence, supporting victims, and rebuilding public confidence in law enforcement.

M-PACE will help the police to understand and use existing research by working together to share their knowledge, as well as creating new research in partnership with the police, and helping to train the next generation of policing researchers and professionals. The programme draws on a team with a strong track record in evidence-based policing to meet the ongoing research and innovation needs of UK policing.

As part of the wider PACE network, it will also help establish national best practices, support training and skills development in policing, and ensure new technologies and methods are evaluated using robust evidence.

“M-PACE is an exciting collaboration between �鶹��ý Metropolitan University and �鶹��ý which will engage colleagues from multiple faculties and disciplines in a common project,” said project co-lead Professor Jon Bannister of �鶹��ý Metropolitan University. “Building on our rich and varied expertise, M-PACE will strive to meet the evidence needs of police forces. We will develop new research and knowledge exchange activities with the ambitions of helping improve public safety and improving the legitimacy of policing within communities.”

The PACE programme marks a major shift in how UK policing engages with science and evidence. The initiative will create a collaborative, nationwide research infrastructure that reflects policing’s Areas of Research Interest (ARIs) - from public protection to digital transformation. Each centre will act as a gateway to independent academic advice, helping forces to navigate complex issues and adopt effective, ethical strategies that serve diverse communities.

As the UK faces fast-changing demands on its police services, the launch of the PACE network signals a long-term commitment to smarter, safer, and more responsive policing - backed by the best that British academia has to offer.

“This is about making sure policing decisions are grounded in the best available knowledge,” said Chief Constable Gavin Stephens, NPCC Chair. “It strengthens our commitment to evidence-based practice and shows our determination to be more transparent, accountable and effective.”

Stian Westlake, Executive Chair of the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), said: “The Policing Academic Centres of Excellence will forge closer relationships between police forces and researchers, providing the police with data and evidence to make the justice system work better.

“By bringing experts in policing practice together with social scientists and data scientists across the country, the centres will provide knowledge and insights to drive service improvement. These centres of excellence demonstrate our commitment to reducing crime and making Britain a safer place.”

Counting on Everyone: Profiling the Christian population in England

Tue, 20 May 2025 11:53:29 +0100

As part of the church’s work to ensure diversity and inclusivity in their work, they asked us to use 2021 census data to profile the demographic changes in the population in England, with a special focus on religion and ethnicity.

Key findings

There was a significant fall in the Christian population, from 37.3 million (72%) in 2001 to 26.2 million (46%) in 2021.
At the same time the number of Muslims (1.5 million to 3.8 million), Hindus (0.5 million to 1 million) and those with no religion (7.2 million to 20.7 million) has more than doubled.
There has been a significant drop in the percentage of White British, White Irish and mixed ethnicity groups (e.g. in 2001 82% of White British respondents identified as Christian compared with 49% in 2021). Most other ethnic categories saw a more gradual decline.
Across most ethnic categories, younger people are less likely to say they are Christian.
Looking at migration history, some ethnic categories (White British, White other, Indian, Asian other and black African and Caribbean, recent arrivals are more likely to be Christian than those born in the UK)
Migration has contributed to the growth in the Christian population recently with 1.2 million Christians migrating to the UK between 2001 and 2011 and 1.9 million between 2011 and 2021 compared to only 0.4 million between 1991 and 2001. The majority of Christian migrants between 2011 and 2021 came from Europe.

See the report for more detailed data from each region of England. The report is written by .

Tiny Human Dramas: 5 Research Stories, 24 Hours, 1 Unforgettable Night of Theatre

Thu, 15 May 2025 16:04:24 +0100

Tiny Human Dramas returns to �鶹��ý’s Contact Theatre on Saturday 31 May with a daring, moving and utterly unique night of theatre.

In just 90 minutes, audiences will witness five entirely original short plays - each created in just 24 hours - that explore some of the most complex, poignant and timely questions about what it means to be human today. This isn’t just experimental theatre – it is research, radically reimagined.

The brainchild of Dr Meghan Rose Donnelly and Dr Alexandra D’Onofrio from �鶹��ý and theatre producer Laura Sophie Helbig, Tiny Human Dramas pairs anthropologists with theatre-makers to transform deep, field-based research into short, emotionally resonant performances.

Each team has just 24 hours to devise, rehearse and stage their 10-minute piece - a creative constraint which sparks a surprising level of intensity and innovation.

Last year’s sold-out premiere at Contact Theatre drew a packed house and rave audience reviews. It brought anthropological research to life for new audiences, sparked conversations about diversity and belonging, and showed the public that research can be a living, breathing, creative force.

“It’s rare to see a project where everyone - researchers, artists, students, and audiences - walks away changed,” says Helbig. “We’re not just making theatre. We’re co-creating new ways of thinking, feeling, and connecting across difference.”

Each play is infused with the distinctive voice of its creators - from poetic monologues to ensemble movement, to satire and sensory storytelling. Following the performance, audience members are invited to stay for a candid conversation with the creators, discussing the themes, the process, and what it means to tell stories across cultures.

In a time of global complexity and cultural tension, it offers a rare chance to pause, reflect and connect. It celebrates the diversity of lived experience and invites audiences to engage directly with the kinds of questions anthropology is uniquely positioned to ask.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at .

Tiny Human Dramas is part of an expanding vision - the team is currently developing a short documentary film about the creative process and exploring opportunities to take the project to national festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe and the ESRC Festival of Social Science.

New publication in the Journal of Social Policy

Thu, 15 May 2025 16:02:55 +0100

The paper “Goodbye human annotators? Content analysis of social policy debates using ChatGPT” can be .

Content analysis is a valuable tool for analysing policy discourse, but annotation by humans is costly and time consuming. ChatGPT is a potentially valuable tool to partially automate content analysis for policy debates, largely replacing human annotators.

We evaluate ChatGPT’s ability to classify documents using pre-defined argument descriptions, comparing its performance with human annotators for two policy debates: the Universal Basic Income debate on Dutch Twitter (2014–2016) and the pension reforms debate in German newspapers (1993–2001). We use the API (GPT-4 Turbo) and user interface version (GPT-4) and evaluate multiple performance metrics (accuracy, precision and recall).

ChatGPT is highly reliable and accurate in classifying pre-defined arguments across datasets. However, precision and recall are much lower, and vary strongly between arguments. These results hold for both datasets, despite differences in language and media type. Moreover, the cut-off method proposed in this paper may aid researchers in navigating the trade-off between detection and noise.

Overall, we do not (yet) recommend a blind application of ChatGPT to classify arguments in policy debates. Those interested in adopting this tool should manually validate bot classifications before using them in further analyses. At least for now, human annotators are here to stay.

New publication in Energy Research & Social Science

Wed, 14 May 2025 15:00:00 +0100

The paper “When does discursive change happen? Detecting phase transitions in discourse networks of sustainability transitions” can be found

Sustainability Transitions Research (STR) confronts complex societal challenges by examining societal shifts and their trajectories. An emerging perspective in STR is discursive approaches, which analyse the role of discourses and discourse coalitions in shaping sustainability transitions. However, discursive approaches face challenges regarding the analysis of sustainability transition processes as complex, temporal processes of stability and change.

We discuss the nature of these challenges and extend the method of discourse network analysis (DNA) by measuring distinct temporal states (phases of stability) in discourse networks and detecting phase transitions (significant changes) between these discursive states.

Whereas most approaches analyse discursive changes in a top-down way, we introduce a method for the bottom-up detection of discursive stability and change. This facilitates a more accurate tracing of how sustainability transitions unfold over time. An empirical application of this extension to the discursive networks around the introduction of a Low Emission Zone demonstrates how and when discourses and actors display significant structural shifts. This methodological innovation addresses the need for measuring stability and change in the complex, discursive, temporal dynamics of sustainability transitions.

Highlights

Identification of 3 challenges of discursive approaches to energy transitions.
Discourse Network Analysis is extended by drawing on mathematical network science.
Bottom-up detection of temporal phases, states, transitions in discourse networks.
Energy transitions should be analysed through the lens of temporal networks.
Case study on the changing debate on a low emission zone in Ghent, Belgium.

New Publication in European Journal of Population

Mon, 12 May 2025 17:01:03 +0100

You can read the paper, “Multiregional Population Forecasting: A Unifying Probabilistic Approach for Modelling the Components of Change”, on.

Regional population forecasts are important for planning and understanding how populations are changing and redistributing. To forecast regional population changes, one must have a mechanism to capture different sources of population growth. In low fertility and developed societies, the main factors driving population redistribution are internal migration and immigration, for which both tend to concentrate people towards large metropolitan areas.

In this article, we extend the multiregional cohort-component population projection model developed by Andrei Rogers and colleagues in the 1960s and 1970s to be fully probabilistic, by using Bayesian inference. We apply the model to forecast population for eight states and territories in Australia.

The projections are based on forecasts of age-, sex- and region-specific fertility, mortality, interregional migration, immigration and emigration. The approach is unified by forecasting each demographic component of change by using a combination of log-linear models with bilinear terms.

This research contributes to the literature by providing a flexible statistical modelling framework capable of incorporating the high dimensionality of the demographic components over time.

Forecasts of a population totals by sex for states and territories in Australia, b total population. States or territories: NSW—New South Wales, VIC—Victoria, QLD—Queensland, SA—South Australia, WA—Western Australia, TAS—Tasmania, NT—Northern Territory, ACT—Australian Capital Territory.

�鶹��ý's Chilean Society successfully campaigned for a polling station for Chilean citizens living in the region

Fri, 09 May 2025 11:15:52 +0100

For the upcoming 2025 presidential elections, more than 800 Chilean citizens living in �鶹��ý and across Northern England will again have the opportunity to vote locally, thanks to a successful grassroots campaign that began in �鶹��ý a few years ago.

Since 2017, Chileans living abroad have had the right to vote in presidential elections and national referendums. However, until 2022, the only UK polling station was in London. This posed significant challenges for Chileans based in the North and Scotland, who faced long, costly journeys to exercise their democratic rights.

In response, the Chilean Society at �鶹��ý launched a campaign in 2022 to establish a polling station in the North of England. With strong support from Chilean residents in the region, the Society made a formal case to the Chilean Electoral Service and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their advocacy paid off in 2023: Chilean citizens voted in the referendum for the first time, using the Students’ Union building (�鶹��ý) as a polling station.

This grassroots initiative was recognised with the by �鶹��ý Students’ Union. The award was presented by Professor Nalin Thakkar, Vice-President for Social Responsibility, in recognition of the Society’s contribution to civic engagement and democratic participation.

During 2025, Chileans abroad will vote in three rounds: the primary election in June, the first round in November, and a potential runoff in December. �鶹��ý will again serve as a polling station for the North of England. This is a result of the consistent collaboration between (lecturer in Politics and former Chair of the Chilean Society) and the to the UK.

This year’s voting process will be supported by the , reinforcing the institution’s commitment to inclusive political participation and global citizenship.

Winners of the Sociology Impact and Engagement Prize announced

Wed, 07 May 2025 12:00:00 +0100

This year’s prize was judged by Philip Drake (Former Director of Social Responsibility, School of Social Sciences) and Hilary Pilkington (Research Director, Sociology) who commented on the variety of audiences engaged: from local sixth form students and social housing tenants in a Brussels neighbourhood, to people connecting to international webinars and World Health Organisation (WHO) leaders.

The winners in our staff category were , and the �鶹��ý Urban Ageing Research Group (MUARG) for the Age-Friendly Futures Summit which aimed to advance the creation of an age-friendly world.

Over 300 age-friendly leaders working in policy, practitioner and research from 20 countries were invited to the event in �鶹��ý in March to share knowledge and shape the future of age-friendly policy and practice. Collaboration was key to the success of the summit, with MUARG working closely with WHO, Greater �鶹��ý Combined Authority, Centre for Ageing Better and �鶹��ý Metropolitan University. This collective approach led to the development of shared international priorities and principles for age-friendly practice, and the team also fed into the WHO European Healthy Ageing Strategy.

and were both highly commended in the staff category. Amit has developed a course for sixth form students at Rochdale College linking sociological concepts around race, class, gender and inequality to students’ experiences of social life in and around Rochdale. Working with the charity The Compassionate Friends (TCF), Laura has produced a series of ‘talking tools’ and contributed to TCF events to share her research on the experiences of bereaved siblings.

wins our PhD student category for co-producing and sharing of a made with social housing tenants in the Molenbeek area of Brussels. The film aimed to amplify the voices of older migrant and working-class communities in local and regional housing policy and practice. Joana organised nine screenings of the film in community venues, each followed by public debate on housing issues between the audience and stakeholders including elected representatives, tenants, community workers and researchers.

, and Sandhya Sharma were highly commended for their project which uses short films to spark conversations on social justice and the city. And Yu Zhu is highly commended for her work with using webinars and online media to share queer scholarship and knowledge with LGBTQ+ people from the Chinese diaspora.

Student Community Charity Project

Fri, 02 May 2025 09:40:02 +0100

First year undergraduate students from across the School of Social Sciences have undertaken voluntary work, during a six-week period, to assist �鶹��ý-based charities. The shortlisted Charities were , , and .

The initiative was of mutual benefit to the Charities and to our students. The volunteering aimed to enhance employability, student experience, and skill development by exposing students to social justice and inclusion, practical charity work, and problem-solving.

Students critically reflected on their experiences and submitted a report detailing their achievements and insights.

Phil Drake, SR Director at the time stated:

One of the students involved said:

A reflection from one of the Charities:

80% of Northern Irish women first endured sexist behaviour as children

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:04:02 +0100

Four in five women surveyed in Northern Ireland said their first experience of sexist behaviour or harassment by men happened when they were children, according to a new study.

, surveyed 211 women in the country who had experienced staring, sexual comments, touching, catcalling, flashing and other behaviour that made them uncomfortable.

She found that 80% said they had first experienced this before the age of 17 – 25% experiencing it before the age of 11, and 55% when aged between 11 and 16 years.

Her study, which is ongoing, also found that almost half (47%) of the 221 women surveyed had, while children or adults, experienced flashing by a man, and 93% had been harassed by men wolf-whistling or cat-calling.

The research was carried out against a background of a gradual increase in violence against women since the end of the Troubles. Sexual violence has increased every year since 1998 and reached the highest recorded level in 2024. Northern Ireland has the second-highest levels of femicide in Europe.

“I found it quite alarming that four out of five respondents first experienced behaviour from a man which made them feel uncomfortable as children, aged 16 or under,” Ms McFalone told the British Sociological Association’s annual conference in �鶹��ý on Wednesday 23 April.

“The other circumstance for unwanted behaviour was while they were working in their first part-time job as a teenager, with adult male customers making sexual or otherwise inappropriate comments to them while they were working. A young girl working her first job probably isn’t going to feel able to challenge this behaviour or speak to someone about it.”

Ms McFalone also carried out interviews with affected women. One told her she was 13 years old when she first was “cat-called in a school uniform” by “fully grown men.” Another said: “I worked for a pizza place as my first job – surprisingly the worst sort of male attention I got, which was borderline illegal, was when I was 15.”

Empowering the Future: Inspiring Careers in Economics Event Highlights Opportunities for Underrepresented Groups

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 15:41:07 +0100

On Wednesday, 26 March, the Department of Economics at �鶹��ý hosted a career event, Inspiring Careers in Economics: Exploring Opportunities Across Sectors, in collaboration with the Royal Economic Society’s UK Women in Economics Network (UK WEN). The event sought to empower underrepresented groups, particularly female economics students, by showcasing diverse career paths within the field.

Breaking Barriers and Building Networks

Professor Almudena Sevilla, an esteemed academic and Founding Chair of UK WEN, acknowledged the progress made in increasing female representation in economics while emphasising the continued need for change.

Sevilla highlighted UK WEN’s mission to support women economists at all career stages and provide visibility for their research and contributions.

The panel discussion also shed light on the varied paths into economics careers, challenging the notion of a linear journey. Sindy Foster, a serial entrepreneur and aviation analyst, emphasised the importance of seizing opportunities, developing strategic thinking, and recognising the value of economics in problem-solving across industries.

The Value of Economics in Public and Private Sectors

Lucy Beggs, a Health Economics Advisor at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), underscored the tangible impact that economists can have in the public sector.

She also highlighted the sector’s inclusive policies and work-life balance, which make it a supportive environment for women.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Martindale, an economist at Oxford Economics, spoke about the dynamic nature of working in economic consultancy and the importance of continuous learning.

Martindale encouraged students to cultivate their interests early, as it helps differentiate them in a competitive job market.

Reflecting on her career, Foster emphasised the need for action alongside strategic planning:

Reshaping the Future of Economics

Professor Rachel Griffith, a leading economist at �鶹��ý and Research Director at the Institute for Fiscal Studies, highlighted the breadth of career opportunities for economics graduates.

Griffith also emphasised the importance of resilience, reminding attendees that failure is an inevitable part of growth:

Foster reinforced this idea, urging students to take initiative:

Reflecting on her own journey, she added,

As the event concluded with a Q&A session and a networking reception, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with speakers and professionals. Conversations around gender diversity and representation in economics continue to gain momentum, and Inspiring Careers in Economics remains a crucial initiative in reshaping the field.

By empowering students to embrace opportunities and take strategic actions toward their goals, events like this play a vital role in fostering the next generation of diverse and innovative economists.

Ground-breaking £2.66 Million Wellcome Discovery Award to transform lives of Motor Neurone Disease patients

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 09:41:16 +0100

In a remarkable stride towards enhancing the lives of those affected by MND, the has awarded a £2.66 million Wellcome Discovery Award to a pioneering project led by , Dr Michael Atkins (aka Cheddar Gorgeous), and .

MND, which affects 1 in 300 people, leads to the loss of speech, movement, and facial expression. The Co-Creative MiND project aims to revolutionise the way individuals with MND interact with the world by combining visual anthropology and computer science.

The project will develop new body-computer interfaces, creative tools, and visual anthropology methods to facilitate social interaction, creative expression, and cultural participation. This includes creative writing, graphic novels, animation, theatre, photography, and filmmaking, showcasing how life with MND can be transformed through creative inclusion.

The project builds on a proof-of-concept established through a University of �鶹��ý Humanities Strategic Investment Fund award and will run from 2025 to 2030.

A short clip, from a full-length theatre production can be viewed . The production is scripted and directed by eye and chin movements, features Dr Michael Atkins/Cheddar Gorgeous and Sarah Ezekiel, who has lived with MND for 23 years; with original music by Alex Herd also living with MND who composes using smartbox technology,

The next show, "Ms. Mandy's Adventures in Wonderland," will be held on 15 June at JW3, London. More information can be found .

Congratulations to everyone involved in this ground-breaking project, which promises to make a significant impact on the lives of those living with MND.

University of �鶹��ý academic appointed Director of global open access criminology platform CrimRxiv

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 10:28:16 +0100

, Senior Lecturer in Quantitative Criminology and Open Research Lead in the , has been appointed Director of , the global open access hub and repository for criminology research.

CrimRxiv is an international platform that enables open access to criminological scholarship, removing paywalls and promoting transparency, inclusivity, and accessibility in research.

Since its launch in 2020, the platform has shared over 3,000 publications with readers in more than 200 countries. In the last month alone, it received approximately 60,000 unique visitor - a testament to its growing global reach and influence.

Dr Buil-Gil is an internationally recognised expert in geographic criminology, small area estimation in crime analysis, measurement error in crime data, innovative data collection methods, and cybercrime. He has served as CrimRxiv’s Managing Moderator since 2023 - a role he will continue alongside his new leadership post - and has been instrumental in shaping the platform’s development.

Dr Buil-Gil becomes the fourth Director of CrimRxiv, following Professors and - both based at �鶹��ý - who played pivotal roles in establishing the platform at the University.

, Founder of CrimRxiv and Associate Director for Sustainability said:

�鶹��ý Professor wins award for her commitment to disability inclusion

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:03:18 +0100

Professor Jackie Carter from �鶹��ý has been recognised with a prestigious Culture Shift Award for her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing disability inclusion within higher education.

Jackie has dedicated her career to championing equality, diversity, and inclusion, with a particular focus on ensuring that disabled staff and students are supported and empowered. She has long been committed to widening participation in education, creating pathways for individuals from underrepresented groups to excel in academia and beyond. Her extensive work in the field of data science has seen her mentor and guide numerous students into successful careers, and she has played a key role in promoting inclusive teaching practices within the University and across the sector.

When she became �鶹��ý’s EDI Disability Academic Lead in 2023, Jackie set out to achieve two major goals – to ensure that disability is discussed as prominently as other protected characteristics, and to move from dialogue to tangible action. She points out that 24% of the working age population are disabled, and 80% of disabilities are not visible – like hers. Under her leadership, the University has made significant strides in embedding disability inclusion into its institutional priorities, ensuring that it is a core consideration in shaping policies and practices.

A key achievement in Jackie’s leadership has been the creation of the ‘’ podcast series, in which she hosts two guests per episode – one senior leader and one staff member or postgraduate researcher who is Deaf, disabled, or chronically ill. The conversations allow her guests to share their perspectives while committing to ‘just one thing’ they will take away and act on. This simple but powerful format has significantly shifted the conversation around disability inclusion at the University, elevating it into previously untapped areas.

Jackie has been instrumental in developing a culture of openness, understanding and proactive change. She is a passionate advocate for role models in the disability space, drawing on her own lived experience as a deaf, dizzy and disabled individual. Her leadership has fostered an environment where disabled staff and students feel empowered to share their challenges and aspirations without fear of stigma. Through her mentorship and advocacy, she has inspired others, leading to several colleagues receiving nominations for major awards – a testament to the ripple effect that her work has created across the University.

Jackie’s efforts have been recognised at the highest levels, influencing the University’s �鶹��ý 2035 strategy and reinforcing the Vice-Chancellor’s vision of being ‘Inclusive by Design’. Her contributions have ensured that disabled staff and students are not only heard but actively involved in shaping a more inclusive academic community.

“Through her work, Jackie has foregrounded disability inclusion, ensuring that disabled staff and students have a voice in shaping a more inclusive culture,” said Vicki Baars, Head of Culture Transformation at Culture Shift. “She truly leads by example and lives the principle of ‘Nothing about us without us’ - her work remains a vital force for creating lasting change at the university.”

Expert says ageing is 'an opportunity, not a problem to be managed'

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:37:09 +0100

Professor Tine Buffel called for society to reframe ageing as an opportunity during her plenary at the Age-Friendly Futures Summit held from 25 to 27 March in �鶹��ý. She emphasised the need to rethink ageing, not as a problem but as a shared opportunity to strengthen communities and create healthier, fairer and more sustainable cities through collective action.

At the Summit, MUARG played a key role in shaping the WHO European Strategy on Healthy Ageing. Led by Yongjie Yon, Head of the Ageing and Health Programme at WHO Europe, MUARG contributed insights and evidence through a series of roundtables, designed to inform the programme's strategic development.

Professor Tine Buffel, Director of the �鶹��ý Urban Ageing Research Group at �鶹��ý, said: “Deeds, not words. �鶹��ý has never waited for change – it has led it. As a pioneer in the age-friendly movement, the city and region have brought together research, policy, and communities to drive forward real progress in creating places where people can age well. The Age-Friendly Futures Summit is our moment to build on this legacy, push boundaries, and drive bold action for a fairer, more inclusive, and more connected future where people of all ages can thrive.”

MUARG, a leading research group comprising experts from the University of �鶹��ý and the �鶹��ý School of Architecture, has been instrumental in highlighting the growing social and spatial inequalities in ageing. In the UK, people living in the most deprived areas can expect to live up to 19 fewer healthy years than those in the most affluent localities.

�鶹��ý was recognised as a pioneering voice in the global age-friendly movement at the Age-Friendly Futures Summit this week. The Summit, delivered in partnership by the University of �鶹��ý, the Centre for Ageing Better, the World Health Organization, the Greater �鶹��ý Combined Authority and �鶹��ý Metropolitan University, was a landmark event that brought together researchers, policymakers, practitioners, architects and communities to share cutting-edge research, showcase effective interventions and set a global agenda for a more age-friendly world.

With the global population of people aged 60 and over predicted to reach 2.1 billion by 2050, the Age-Friendly Futures Summit called for urgent action to create a more equitable and age-friendly future. Population ageing and urbanisation are the defining demographic trends of our time, but urban planning still focuses on youth and families, rather than integrating the needs of all generations. In response, the WHO developed the Age-Friendly Cities initiative in 2007 and launched the Global Network of Age-Friendly Cities and Communities (AFCC) in 2010, which now covers over 1,700 cities and communities in 60 countries.

Building on this legacy, Greater �鶹��ý has since become the UK’s first age-friendly city region. Together, the city and region have worked to create environments where people of all ages can participate in community life and feel respected and included in social, cultural, and civic spaces.

At the Summit, various initiatives from Greater �鶹��ý were showcased, including the installation of age-friendly benches with backrests and arm supports to make public spaces more accessible. Architecture students collaborated with older residents to co-design public spaces that reflect their needs and aspirations. Cultural institutions hosted events, such as My Generation Club Nights, for people aged 50 and over, challenging ageist stereotypes. Underused spaces have been repurposed as community hubs, offering safe and welcoming spaces for older LGBTQ+ people and ethnically minoritised groups.

A key message from the Summit was the leading role older people play in shaping the age-friendly agenda, as active co-creators of research, policy, and practice. Initiatives such as MUARG’s Older People’s Forum and the Greater �鶹��ý Older People’s Network (GMOPN) enable older residents to act as co-researchers, shape research priorities, and influence local and regional decision-making. Elaine Unegbu, Chair of GMOPN, noted how older people’s voices have often been silenced and their contributions overlooked. These platforms challenge that, providing a space for older people to lead change, inform policy, and improve lives. The Summit highlighted such examples to encourage genuine co-production and long-term collaboration with communities and grassroots organisations.

Professor Stefan White, Professor of Architecture at MSA and member of MUARG, said, “The relationship between place, health inequality and ageing is a complex challenge which requires urgent critical attention. This Summit showcases globally significant research in Greater �鶹��ý, helping researchers, developers, housing providers, urban planners and public health departments from around the world to better understand and create age-friendly neighbourhoods and respond to the residential desires of older people.”

The Summit reinforced that tackling the inequalities that shape how we age, linked to place, gender, class, race, disability and migration, must be central to age-friendly work. MUARG's ongoing work is crucial in driving research and collaboration to improve the experience of ageing and to build fairer, more inclusive and connected cities for all.

Learn more about the �鶹��ý Urban Ageing Research Group’s work in building an age-friendly future by .

Five �鶹��ý experts become Academy of Social Sciences Fellows

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:14:30 +0100

An unprecedented five academics from �鶹��ý have been recognised as leading experts in their fields by being named as Fellows of the Academy of Social Sciences.

New Fellows are named in recognition of their excellence and impact, and their advancement of social sciences for the public good. Through leadership, research and policymaking, they have deepened understanding of major societal challenges. The Academy comprises over 1,400 Fellows, 46 societies and affiliates, forming a 90,000-strong network that cements the UK’s global leadership in social sciences.

Joining them is Professor Sherilyn MacGregor, a leading scholar in environmental politics who is internationally renowned for her expertise in ecological feminism and environmental justice. Her research connects sustainability and justice in policy and practice, working with organisations like Oxfam and grassroots activists. She has authored pioneering works, mentored early career scholars, and edited Environmental Politics since 2010. She has secured over £1 million in research funding and recently led an £8.5 million bid for the , where, as PI and director, she leads more than 30 researchers studying just transitions to net zero.

“It is a huge privilege to become a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences, and I want to thank the colleagues responsible for my nomination,” said Sherilyn. “As we start building the JUST Centre, I am more committed than ever to demonstrating that the environmental social sciences play a vital role in leading the way out of the current so-called ‘polycrisis’. I will continue to do work that supports community struggles for eco-social justice, inspired by the countless mentors who have taught me the necessity and the rewards of engaged scholarship.”

Also named as a new Fellow is Professor Stefan Bouzarovski, who also co-leads a core working group of the JUST Centre as well as the . Honoured by the EU as an ‘Ordinary Hero’, Stefan is a leading expert on energy regulation, urban inequality and housing vulnerability who has influenced global climate policies as the University’s Associate Research Director for Impact. A key member of the and the , he has worked with the UN, UK Government, EU and World Bank. He co-founded the European Energy Poverty Observatory, and he has authored over 150 publications.

“I am incredibly honoured and humbled to have received this recognition, while also feeling deeply grateful to the Royal Geographical Society for their nomination,” said Stefan. “All academic work is collective, and this Fellowship is equally the result of multiple years of cooperation with numerous researchers and practitioners across the world. I hope to be able to extend and develop our shared work in the period to come, in working towards energy equity and social justice against the background of the unfolding climate crisis.”

Another new Fellow is deputy director of the JUST Centre Professor Matthew Paterson, a globally recognised expert in climate politics and environmental governance whose work explores the political economy of climate change, global environmental governance and sustainable transformations. Matthew has authored influential books and over 100 scholarly articles, shaping discourse on climate politics. He has led major international research projects funded by organisations such as the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the Leverhulme Trust, and he has engaged policymakers worldwide including as an author for the UN’s IPCC reports.

Also named as a Fellow is Professor Toni Haastrup, a leading expert in feminist international studies. Her work has explored contemporary Africa-EU relations, feminist foreign policy and the Women, Peace and Security agenda. With over 80 published works, her work seeks to bridge theory and practice, which has led to collaborations with UN agencies and EU institutions. Passionate about inclusion in the sector, Toni is currently chair of the . Her contribution to feminist knowledge in Europe was recognised with an Emma Goldman Award in 2022. She is also a mid-career fellow of the Independent Social Research Foundation.

“I am deeply honoured to be recognised by the Academy of Social Sciences,” Toni said. “This recognition further validates the importance of feminist perspectives within the humanities and social sciences, at a time we are increasingly seeing a backlash within and outside the academy. Yet, this work is essential to addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time, and I am grateful to the colleagues and collaborators who have supported my work over the years.”

Our final new Fellow is Professor Sophie Woodward, a distinguished sociologist who carries out research into material culture, consumption and everyday life. Sophie is the author of several books including Why Women Wear What They Wear (2007), Blue Jeans: The Art of the Ordinary (2012), Birth and Death: experience, ethics and politics (2020) and Material Methods: Researching and Thinking with Things (2019) who co-directs the , as well as serving as Vice-Director of the National Centre for Research Methods (NCRM). She is also one of the founding editors of the new Journal of Creative Research methods.

“I am delighted to be made a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences - it is wonderful to receive recognition like this,” said Sophie. “I look forward to working with other fellows at a time when the world needs social science methods, perspectives and critiques more than ever. I look forward to continuing to develop critical engagements with methods and the data they can generate and my research into everyday lives.”

“I’m delighted to welcome these outstanding social scientists to the Academy’s Fellowship, whose research and practice are helping to develop solutions to pressing societal issues,” said Will Hutton, President of the Academy. “We look forward to working with them to further promote the vital role the social sciences play in all areas of our lives.”

Police struggle to identify the riskiest domestic abuse perpetrators – here’s how they can do better

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:51:16 +0000

The government cannot achieve its target to if it doesn’t address the most serious perpetrators – and it isn’t anywhere near knowing how to identify them. Our shows where they are going wrong, and how they can do better.

The most recent statistics show that violence against women and girls affects one in 12 women in . A quarter of domestic abuse incidents reported to police involve known, repeat perpetrators. But despite being to identify and control the most serious perpetrators, police do not currently have systems good enough to do that.

Currently, police forces use an algorithm to determine which offenders pose the greatest risk to women and girls. This is known as the – perpetrators are propelled up or down a list based on the recency, frequency, gravity (seriousness) of reported incidents, and the vulnerability of the victim.

The gap in this approach is that it largely treats incidents as isolated, when they should be looked at as a whole. Research has also found it is used between forces.

Most police perpetrator lists contain hundreds or even thousands of people, making them difficult tools to use. They also do not seem to be able to distinguish who the most serious offenders are, with men with very similar profiles near the top, middle and bottom of the lists.

We propose an , which would assess the whole of a perpetrator’s record of incidents. This would allow police to identify not only the most dangerous perpetrators, but also opportunities to better address their offending earlier on. This might be with diversion to programmes designed to support better choices and rehabilitation, or arrest and incarceration to prevent them harming other people.

By joining together incidents recorded by police for individual perpetrators, we constructed detailed case studies using police officer’s notes. Here is a summary of two people who appear in one force’s perpetrator list.

1. Male born mid 1980s, involved in 340 incidents over 20 years

His offending begins with an indecent assault on a young teenage girl when he is 19. He is increasingly involved in drug-related offending in his 20s. He is later sentenced to six years in jail for arson endangering life. Released on conditional licence, he is re-convicted of the harassment of his ex-partner and recalled to prison.

Release is followed by further offences until the mid-2010s when he is imprisoned again. When released, his offending is erratic (low-level public order, violence, threats, drug-related offending).

Throughout his 30s, he frequently victimises partners and ex-partners. He has no settled address and is homeless at various points of his life. He is still subject to frequent mental health episodes.

2. Male born early 1980s, involved in 396 incidents over 25 years

In his teens he was involved in low-level thefts, criminal damage and breaches of an antisocial behaviour order. He was also suspected of selling drugs to schoolchildren, and imprisoned, aged 18, for drug-related violence.

In his 20s he “associates with” children and is found with a missing vulnerable schoolgirl hiding in his house. He continues to commit offences of criminal damage, drug dealing, and stealing vehicles. Another missing teenage girl is found to be living with him.

In his early 20s he very violently assaults and harasses much younger partners. He continues to commit public order offences and to threaten, harass, and assault current and ex-partners, kicking his pregnant partner in the stomach.

In the early 2020s, police attend his ex-partner’s house following abandoned 999 calls – they find him with his hand over her mouth to stop her calling out to the police. He continues to be violent to ex-partners and his involvement in drug-related offending deepens. He is currently in prison for a violent offence.

Who is the danger?

Both men pose a real and severe threat of violence to women and girls as well as the public. But the RFGV algorithm places the first man more than a thousand places higher than the second. Clearly treating the offences they commit in isolation is not sufficient to distinguish which man poses the greatest risk.

A life-course approach, which takes into account the type and pattern of offending as it develops over time, is less susceptible to fluctuations which move an offender rapidly up or down the priority lists. Therefore, it more reliably reflects who poses the greatest risk.

A better ranking system is clearly required. The RFGV algorithm provides a “score”, but a more sophisticated system would also evaluate the direction of offending of individuals – is it escalating, more frequent, more serious?

A life-course approach could be used separately or together with RFGV to allow police analysts to identify the most serious perpetrators. It may also be possible to use artificial intelligence to identify trends in offending and escalation of risk through analysis of thousands of police incident reports in real time.

The system could then identify opportunities for which have been shown to be effective in reducing re-offending against current and future victims. It could also automatically trigger warnings to neighbourhood officers, specialist domestic abuse-trained officers, mental health services and so on.

We won’t really know the full capability until new systems are tried, and evaluated. This also means including the voices of survivors and focusing on the lives of persistent perpetrators – often substance use, homelessness, estrangement, imprisonment and mental health problems are at play. The possibilities of learning from artificial intelligence or other technology should not be privileged over the very sources of the data such intelligence relies upon: victims’ experiences.

, Professor of Criminology, and , Professor of Social Justice,
This article is republished from under a Creative Commons license. Read the .

Best-selling author Laura Bates delivers an impactful lecture at the Annual Christabel Pankhurst Lecture

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 16:06:19 +0000

Activist, speaker and author visited the in February to deliver an impactful lecture on extreme misogyny and why she feels it’s imperative we declare acts carried out in its name as terrorism.

Reflecting on findings from her 2021 book ‘Men Who Hate Women’ Laura shared insights into the 'manosphere' and the groups which make up this online subculture, alongside examining the current UK political and media landscape which are acting as barriers to combatting this rising epidemic.

The lecture, hosted in collaboration between the School’s and , is named in honour of the iconic suffragette and activist , who helped lead the movement for women's right to vote in the early 20th century. Each year the event aims to inspire discussion and debate on critical issues relating to gender equality, civil liberties, criminal justice, democracy, and humanitarian causes - causes that Christabel Pankhurst dedicated her life to fighting for.

As a feminist author Laura has written extensively on sexism, extremist misogyny and recently AI, which will be featured in her upcoming book ‘The New Age of Sexism’ to be released in May 2025.

The audience engaged deeply with the issues she raised throughout the lecture during a thought-provoking Q&A session. A particularly critical question came from a student, asking how to address and counteract rising misogyny in young male family members, the target recruitment group for the ‘manosphere’ currently.

Laura applauded the question, highlighting shame and fear as key parts of radicalisation:

Her response discussed the need for conversations to remain supportive and continuous, with a target of understanding the root of the fear drawing young men into misogynistic extremism.

Staff and students at �鶹��ý can view the full lecture via the video portal for 30 days (available until 15 April 2025). .

For members of the public unable to attend the full lecture, several key moments will be made available online shortly.

Following the event, attendees made their way to the University Place foyer for a networking reception, and book signing hosted by Blackwells.

Gemma, who works in the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector, “appreciated the opportunity to hear Laura speak. The passion from the academic staff was also heartening." She also felt reassured to know that our students were so actively engaged in discussions surrounding VAWG.

The 2025 Christabel Pankhurst Lecture reinforced the University's commitment to addressing pressing social issues and fostering meaningful dialogue on gender equality and social justice. Further information about upcoming events in this series will be shared on the School of Social Sciences website.

Ukrainian leaders share first-hand accounts of democratic resilience at �鶹��ý

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 10:23:44 +0000

On Tuesday, 25 February, students and academics gathered at �鶹��ý to hear first-hand accounts of resilience and democratic resistance from Ukrainian leaders. The event, Democratic Resilience After De-Occupation: Local Communities’ Response to Russia’s War Against Ukraine, provided an eye-opening insight into life under occupation and the efforts to rebuild in the face of destruction.

First-Hand Accounts of Survival and Resistance

The panel featured key figures such as Larysa Bilozir, Member of Parliament and Chair of the Committee on State Building, Local Governance, Regional, and Urban Development. She spoke passionately about the significance of international audiences engaging with Ukrainian voices, expressing gratitude for those who attended to listen and learn.

Tatiana Sviridenko, Head of the Ivankiv community in the Kyiv region, shared harrowing details of the war’s impact on local communities, particularly the elderly. “Many of those who lost their homes were pensioners,” she said, highlighting the devastating personal toll. One story that resonated deeply was the destruction of the Ivankiv Historical and Local History Museum, which housed 25 paintings by renowned artist Maria Prymachenko. In an extraordinary act of bravery, three residents ran into the burning building to save the artwork.

Joining the discussion were several other Ukrainian leaders dedicated to the country’s reconstruction and democratic resilience.

Mykola Stefanishyn, Deputy Minister for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development of Ukraine, highlighted the strategic efforts being made to rebuild war-torn regions, while Natalia Pipa, Member of Parliament and Secretary of the Committee on Education, Science, and Innovation, spoke about the impact of war on Ukraine’s education system and the steps being taken to ensure learning continues despite the hardships.

Preserving Identity and History

Vitaliy Beloborov, Deputy Head of the Kherson City Military Administration, discussed Russia’s attempts to erase Ukrainian identity and culture. During its eight-month occupation, Russian forces sought to eliminate historical records and symbols of resistance. In response, Kherson has established a Museum of Resistance to preserve everyday items that became symbols of survival.

He also warned about the dangers of Russian disinformation campaigns, emphasizing that “professional methods are used to distort the truth.” His call to action was clear: by listening, sharing stories, and raising awareness, the international community can play a vital role in countering propaganda.

The discussion also featured Anatoliy Fedoruk, the Mayor of Bucha, a city that has become a powerful symbol of Ukrainian resilience following the atrocities committed during Russia’s occupation. He shared his city’s painful experiences and the efforts being made to restore normalcy and honour the memories of those lost.

A Call for Global Solidarity

Oksana Prodan, Advisor to the Head of the Association of Ukrainian Cities, reinforced the importance of international support.

The panellists stressed that conversations like these help amplify Ukraine’s struggle and ensure that the world remains engaged.

The gratitude expressed by the speakers highlighted how vital external support is, not only in terms of material aid but also in keeping Ukraine’s story in the global spotlight. The simple act of listening, asking questions, and seeking to understand was acknowledged as a form of solidarity that strengthens Ukraine’s resistance.

A key theme that ran throughout the discussion was an unshakable pride in being Ukrainian. “We will win this war,” one speaker declared with conviction. Their words reflected not just hope, but an unwavering belief in the resilience of their people and their commitment to democracy.

Lessons for the Future

The event concluded with a powerful takeaway: listening is an act of resistance. By hearing and understanding Ukraine’s fight for survival, attendees became part of a broader effort to uphold truth and justice. In a world where disinformation and apathy threaten to silence critical voices, events like these remind us of the importance of engagement and advocacy.

The Ukrainian leaders left the audience with a simple but profound message: solidarity matters, and the world must continue to stand with Ukraine.

Educational Initiatives Supporting Democratic Resilience

As part of broader efforts to educate and engage students in contemporary political challenges, the event was organized under the Ukraine Rises course, sponsored by the . This is the first contemporary politics course in the United Kingdom based in a social science department.

Olga Onuch, Professor of Comparative and Ukrainian Politics, emphasized how the course complements the themes of resilience and civic responsibility discussed throughout the event:

The passing of Professor Margot Brazier

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:00:00 +0000

Margot first came to �鶹��ý to study Law as an undergraduate, graduating in 1971. Her initial career plan was to go to the Bar, but given her relative youth at the time, she decided she would wait a couple of years. In this interim period, she joined the (then) Faculty of Law as a Lecturer.

This career decision would also have a key impact upon Margot’s personal life, as she would subsequently marry one of her colleagues, Rodney Brazier, in 1974. Together the Braziers have remained at the heart of Law at �鶹��ý for over 50 years.

Margot began as a tort scholar and this expertise led her to become co-editor of two key textbooks in the field. Research in this area then led her into reading North American case law on medical malpractice, which began her interest in the link between the law and healthcare. She published widely in this field to international acclaim. In recent years, Margot explored the history of medicine and its links with law, the topic of her most recent book.

In the early 1980s Margot met John Harris, a philosopher, also working at �鶹��ý. They discovered shared interests and, together with other colleagues, decided to set up a Masters degree in . Margot also taught undergraduate students, inspiring many to continue their studies to postgraduate level. She supervised many PhD students who have benefited from her knowledge, wisdom and guidance.

In 1986 Margot and John also set up the (CSEP) which has become a leading research centre.

The current Co-Directors of CSEP (Sarah Devaney and Alex Mullock) reflect:

Margot also used her expertise in public service. Not only an outstanding scholar who made a pioneering contribution to her field, she has also made an equally outstanding contribution as a public intellectual and leader in policy debate and law reform. Margot Chaired the Animal Procedures Committee (1993-98), led a review into surrogacy for UK Health Ministers (1996- 1998), Chaired the Retained Organs Commission (2001-2004) and Chaired a Working Party ‘The Ethics of Prolonging Life in Foetuses and the Newborn’ for the Nuffield Council on Bioethics (2004-2006).

Margot was an incredible mentor to so many students and academics and has been acknowledged as a ‘paradigmatic female role model’. Her enormous contribution has been recognised in many awards including an OBE (1997), Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (1993), Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (2007), Queen’s Council (honoris causa) (2008), Halsbury Legal Award for Academic Contribution (2013), University of �鶹��ý Medal of Honour (2012) and Fellow of the British Academy (2014).

Alison Wilson, former Head of School Operations, and Sarah Tiffany-Dodman, Engagement and External Relations Manager, on behalf of all the Professional Services staff who knew and worked with Margot reflect:

Professor Jackie Carter highlights legacy and future of GM4Women2028

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:40:27 +0000

�鶹��ý’s Professor Jackie Carter has delivered a compelling message on the importance of data-driven legacy and sustained action at the 7th Pankhurst-Fawcett Scorecard Reveal, hosted by GM4Women2028 at Stockport County Football Club.

Established in 2018, GM4Women2028 is a gender equality initiative focused on improving the lives of women and girls in Greater �鶹��ý. The organisation brings together activists, policymakers, and community members to push for meaningful improvements in gender equality through data-driven strategies and public engagement. It tracks progress across key sectors using the Pankhurst-Fawcett Scorecard, holding institutions accountable and advocating for systemic change.

Experts from �鶹��ý lead various aspects of GM4Women2028 including Professor Jill Rubery and Dr Eva Herman (Employment), Dr Omolade Femi-Ajao (Safety) and Professor Francesca Gains (Participation).

Professor Jackie Carter - a champion of gender equality and a leader in data-driven advocacy - co-leads Communications and Operations for GM4Women2028. She introduced the at the event, a landmark publication capturing the formation, impact, and progress of the initiative since its inception.

She emphasised the importance of maintaining the momentum of change by continuously collecting and analysing data, ensuring that the lived experiences of women and girls in Greater �鶹��ý are at the forefront of policy discussions and decision-making.

Professor Carter’s remarks reinforced the essential role that data plays in driving social change. The Pankhurst-Fawcett Scorecard has been a crucial tool for measuring progress across key sectors, identifying both victories and areas where further action is needed. This year’s findings provided insights into persistent gender disparities while also highlighting positive strides towards equality.

The event featured dynamic discussions, including a keynote address from Professor Helen Pankhurst - a direct descendant of Emmeline and Sylvia Pankhurst - who echoed Professor Carter’s message, stating: “Turning data into action is our greatest challenge and opportunity.”

As the event concluded, GM4Women2028 reaffirmed its commitment to pushing for systemic change. The next Dialogue and Action Event will take place in Bolton on Saturday, July 5, providing another opportunity for communities, policymakers and activists to collaborate and plan actionable solutions.

Welcome to Dr Mariana De Araujo Cunha

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:47:01 +0000

Prior to starting the position, Mariana was working on her PhD in Sociology at the University of Oxford. Her PhD was titled “” and explores only-child fertility from a sociodemographic perspective.

At the University of Oxford she also worked as a research assistant on the project “Digital Gender Gaps”, focusing on combining traditional surveys and big data for population analysis. Her main research interests are family demography, fertility and the use of formal demographic methods for exploring changes in kinship networks.

Since joining �鶹��ý, she has been co-teaching in SOST10012-Understanding Social Media Data and SOST2002-Essentials of Survey Design and Analysis.

Prior to moving to the UK, Mariana trained as a demographer at the Centre for Development and Regional Planning (Cedeplar) in Brazil, where she was awarded an MSc, and developed her research interests in family demography, as well as formal demographic methods.

University of �鶹��ý PhD student awarded place on the Turing Enrichment scheme

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 09:28:25 +0000

The award is presented annually to students who demonstrate exceptional contributions to artificial intelligence (AI) and data science research.

's doctoral research employs advanced machine learning techniques to examine the causal impact of front-of-package food labelling on consumer behaviour, drawing on both randomised trials and observational data. Her research in this field has implications in areas ranging from health causal inference to data linkage.

She will receive funding to continue the research and join the Turing Institute network, a collaborative platform aimed at advancing AI and data science.

Congratulations to Constanza on this remarkable achievement!

Further information on the Turing Enrichment Scheme can be found on .

Kinship carers struggling to cope despite £4.3 billion value they add to society

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 15:31:31 +0000

Dr , Lecturer in Sociology, is one of the authors of '', a new report on the huge and often under-recognised contribution made to society by kinship carers, who look after children who would often otherwise be in the care system.

The team estimate that over 132,000 children live in kinship care in England. Kinship carers contribute an estimated £4.3 billion a year to society. But unlike foster carers and adoptive parents, most have few rights to financial, practical and emotional support, and taking on the care of a child they love often pushes them into poverty, unemployment and ill health.

The report is produced by at University of Sheffield in partnership with Kinship. It is written by Maria Petrillo, Jingwen Zhang, Becky Driscoll, and Nathan Hughes.

Law students gain insight from wrongfully convicted sub-postmasters

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:23:19 +0000

On Tuesday, 19 February, law students at �鶹��ý had a unique opportunity to hear first-hand from three sub-postmasters - Janet Skinner, Seema Misra, and Tom Hedges - who were wrongfully convicted due to flaws in the Post Office’s Horizon accounting system.

This event, part of the 'Miscarriages of Justice' module, provided students with a stark insight into the consequences of corporate negligence and prosecutorial misconduct.

Rochelle Rossi, a student who attended the lecture, found it profoundly impactful:

First-hand accounts of injustice

During the event, the speakers shared their deeply personal and distressing experiences.

Janet Skinner, who was sentenced to nine months in prison for false accounting in 2006, spoke about the devastating impact on her life, “Once inside, I was placed on suicide watch for a week because of my state of mind.” After her release, stress triggered an autoimmune attack that left her paralysed from the neck down. Although she fought back and relearned how to walk, she remains permanently disabled.

Seema Misra was sentenced to 15 months in prison in 2010 after being wrongly convicted of theft and false accounting. She was ordered to pay £40,000 in compensation to the Post Office.

Tom Hedges faced a £23,000 shortfall in 2010 and was advised to plead guilty to false accounting to avoid a custodial sentence. He was sentenced to seven months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, and had to pay the Post Office £1,000 in legal fees.

Common barriers to justice

Despite the differences in each story, common barriers emerged throughout. The concealment of crucial documents, the immense financial and reputational power of the Post Office, and the systemic failures that allowed such injustices to persist all played a role.

Both Tom and Seema used their own money to cover the deficits created by the faulty Horizon system, and when faced with prosecution, they had to rely on Legal Aid to secure defence lawyers.

The Post Office had a dedicated in-house legal team that remained focused on the cases. The high cost of legal support made it difficult for sub-postmasters to afford effective counsel, and the deliberate withholding of evidence proving their innocence further undermined their ability to mount a proper defence.

Each sub-postmaster was made to believe theirs was the only case, further hiding the widespread nature of the Horizon IT issues. By isolating each defendant, the Post Office was able to hide the IT issues for longer and falsely prosecute more than 900 innocent people in total.

Addressing systemic failures

A Q&A session following the testimonies allowed staff and students to pose questions to Janet, Seema, and Tom, who gave their candid thoughts.

When asked whether they still had faith in the system, the speakers expressed confidence in their current legal teams but scepticism toward institutional accountability. The latest news of the Home Office granting Fujitsu over £25 million in new contracts was mentioned, highlighting concerns over government contracts. "They are awarding bad behaviour—what incentive is there for change?" Seema Misra questioned.

Despite being invited to numerous meetings with government officials, including Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer, trust in government to change things has not been restored with Janet Skinner remarking:

Since starting the fight for compensation, the sub-postmasters have renewed trust in the legal profession, even understanding why they had been advised to enter guilty pleas initially. They implored the law students to make decisions in the future with ethics and people in mind, thinking of the bigger picture and the person behind a case.

Lessons for our law students

Professor Claire McGourlay, Director of the �鶹��ý Innocence Project, emphasised the significance of hearing directly from those affected:

The event at �鶹��ý provided law students with a profound learning experience, emphasising the importance of ethical decision-making and the need for systemic reform. The first-hand accounts of Janet Skinner, Seema Misra, and Tom Hedges highlighted the human cost of wrongful convictions and the urgent need for change in the legal and corporate systems.

As future legal professionals, the students were reminded of their role in preventing such injustices and advocating for a fairer, more just society.

with further details on the sub-postmasters experiences.

Local Government 25 Top Thinker – Liz Richardson

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 12:25:54 +0000

, who leads the Politics department at the , has been recognised as one of the top 25 thinkers by the (LGIU).

The list features leaders who are finding solutions to some of the world’s biggest problems. Professor Richardson focuses on creating more democratic and participatory ways of doing politics by working with academics, practitioners, and citizens. She is also interested in new research methods that involve people in the research process.

The LGIU has released its first-ever list of after launching the , a programme designed to help local governments tackle global challenges and make the most of new technologies, including addressing climate change.

Liz reflects on this recognition:

New publication in Research & Politics

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 12:13:48 +0000

“” is available to read online.

Political elites express their ideological positions on contentious issues across various arenas in the public sphere. Social science research often relies on data extracted from various media or political and administrative sources, as well as surveys that are administered directly with the political actor.

Although some studies compare ideology across different sources, few systematically analyse how political actors adjust their ideological messaging to the audiences in the respective communication arenas and how such changes are associated with systematic bias in data sources.

This paper uses a unique dataset, combining climate policy belief observations from three arenas - social media, Congressional testimony, and surveys - on identical ideological variables and during the same time period.

We apply item response theory to understand how responses differ by arena and find that ideological communication on X is most left-leaning, Congressional testimony is most right-leaning, and surveys, the data source with the smallest potential arena effect, is in the middle. We also find that actors with strong ideological leaning moderate their positions on social media and in Congress.

These findings enhance our understanding of strategic communication depending on audience context and inform social research on biases when analyzing specific data sources.

Welcome to Professor Philip Leifeld

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:41:38 +0000

I am a Professor of Social Statistics in the at �鶹��ý, which is part of the . I am also a member of the and the .

Before joining �鶹��ý in April 2024, I was a Professor of Comparative Politics in the Department of Government at the University of Essex.

I am also a DFG Mercator Fellow in the Research Training Group on Digital Platform Ecosystems at the University of Passau (2022-2027) and serve as chair of the Political Networks Section of the American Political Science Association (APSA) in 2024-2025.

My main research interests are politics and public policy, network analysis and complex systems, statistical modelling, and computational social sciences. I am best known for my work on discourse network analysis (and the software ), the R package, and my work on statistical models for longitudinal network data (e.g., implemented in the R package).

My research has appeared in leading political science journals (e.g., AJPS, JOP, BJPS), public policy and administration journals (e.g., PSJ, JPART), technical journals (e.g., Physica A: Statistical Mechanics, Network Science, JStatSoft), and outlets in other fields (e.g., Nature Climate Change, Addiction, Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin).

More information on Professor Philip Leifeld can be found on .

IASE 2024 Roundtable Workshop Summary

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 10:10:17 +0000

The paper, “Learnings from a decade of data fellows: Co-creation of a data skills framework for non-stem students”, is available to .

This workshop provided a reflection on an experiential learning model developed in the UK. The Data Fellows initiative supports undergraduate social science and humanities students to develop their data skills through work placements.

The findings have resulted in a book, academic articles and international presentations which collectively provide a substantial body of evidence to illustrate how non-STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) students can learn and practice their data analytic skills and progress into data and technical careers. 25% of the 373 Data Fellows placed to date have been from historically under-represented groups and 70% have been female.

A case study was presented to show a journey from a first degree in social science to a postgraduate degree in data science. The aim of the workshop was to challenge the deficit narrative that can accompany the teaching of data skills in the social sciences and explore whether a suitable data skills framework exists or could be developed.

For more information about Jackie visit .