Upcoming Seminar: What Do We Mean by ‘Participation’ in Research Culture?

There will be a second Research Culture Seminar on 27th May 12.30-14.00, entitled What Do We Mean by ‘Participation’ in Research Culture?

Dr Karen Laing , Professor Daniel Siemens, and Dr Elie Chahda will join us for this discussion, in King’s Gate 1.18 (hybrid)

This session considers what forms and models of participation we might learn from. What do ‘thicker’ conceptions of participation actually look like, drawing from democratic theory, international and historical precedent, and practice in other sectors and fields? How does it change what’s possible if we think in terms of engagement, co-creation, or democratic governance rather than simply participation? And what are the material, structural and political conditions under which colleagues can be genuinely empowered with both resources and a role in decision-making to shape the cultures they work within? 

The conversation brings together three speakers who approach these questions from different angles — a Professor of European History; an expert in strategy practices, open strategy and institutional work; and an expert in participatory practices. All exploring what more meaningful forms of participation might look like in practice, and how they connect to wider questions about democracy in the university and beyond. 

Last modified: Thu, 07 May 2026 16:13:44 BST