Topic: PGR contributed
Messy, Unpredictable, Wonderful Fieldwork
Qualitative fieldwork rarely goes exactly to plan. Drawing on her experiences conducting research in rural Egypt, Marwa Makhlouf, a PGR in the School of Government, reflects on the messiness, surprises and unexpected insights that emerge in the field, offering practical advice on building relationships, staying reflective, and embracing uncertainty.
PGR WSS 2026: timeout to reflect, network with colleagues, and recharge
A dedicated space to write is valuable, but the connections made along the way can be just as important. Reflecting on this year’s PGR Writing Summer School, Aline Nixon, a PGR in the School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, shares how conversations with fellow researchers and sessions on thesis writing and publishing helped her gain fresh perspectives and renewed momentum.
The Power of Representation: Insights from Holding the Space
Nadra Adan, from the School of Biosciences, reflects on her experience at the Holding the Space conference, exploring themes of representation, community, and belonging. She shares key insights from speakers and discussions, highlighting how the event shaped her perspective as a Black PhD researcher and reinforced the value of visibility, mentorship, and inclusive academic environments.
Forks and Fortunes: Turning Findings into Fun
In this post, Charlene Rose, a recently completed PGR from the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, shares how she transformed her research into an engaging board game. She reflects on creativity, public engagement, and using play to make complex ideas accessible to wider audiences beyond academia.
Publishing in The Conversation
In this post, Yuxuan Wu, a recently completed PGR from Birmingham Business School, reflects on publishing in The Conversation after success in the 3MT competition. She outlines pitching ideas, collaborating with editors, and adapting research for public audiences, highlighting the challenges and rewards of sharing accessible, impactful research beyond academia.
Six Years to Three Minutes
The University of Birmingham Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition final was held in March. In this post, Helen Pakes, a part-time PGR in the School of Psychology, reflects on her experience of being a 3MT finalist, from preparation and feedback to presenting on campus and connecting with fellow researchers.
AI in Research: a sceptic’s reflections
Reflecting on attending two recent events exploring the role of AI in doctoral research and academic writing, Luke Bradbury, a PGR in the Department of Public Administration and Policy, considers where AI can support PGRs and where human judgement still matters.
Reminiscing and Progress: the PhD Viva and what comes next
Getting your PhD in for your deadline is no small feat, but what about the dreaded phrase ‘PhD Viva’? In this post, postgraduate researcher Amy Porter reflects on her Viva experience and shares expert advice on approaching corrections.
A Brilliant Experience with The Brilliant Club
In this post, Aman Thakur, a PGR in Law, reflects on his inspiring experience working as a PhD Tutor with The Brilliant Club. He shares how the programme strengthened his teaching skills, helped him rethink his own knowledge, and offered meaningful opportunities to support and learn from young students.
Flaming Fingers, Plastic Guitars: From Funding Application to Conference Presentation
Last year, Chris Hill, a PGR in the Department of Music, applied to the University’s Postgraduate Work Experience Bursary for support to present at a conference. Here, he shares his experience and pleasure at an opportunity to revisit academically a childhood favourite.