Astonish The World: Proceedings of the ATW Postgraduate Conference 2022

Abstract

We are delighted to present this Conference Proceedings of the inaugural Astonish the World conference. Held in July 2022, this conference organised by the Stephenson College Middle Common Room, provided a supportive and engaging space for the postgraduate community in college and more widely to share their valuable knowledge and experience, as well as collaborate and network. This was our first postgraduate conference, covering a wide range of topics and approaches to the concept of astounding the world through the exploration of different fields of research. We counted on an extensive variety of contributors and presenters, with many nationalities and cultures represented, inspiring multi-disciplinary collaborative links, fomenting intellectual encounter and development. The conference opened with an all-female panel discussion, followed by a total of 14 presentations produced by scholars as well as two workshops focusing on EDI and mental health as a PhD student delivered by practitioners. The conference provided new perspectives to the thought-leaders and decision-makers of today and tomorrow by offering constructive environments for dialogue and interchange, and we hope that all participants found the experience positive and constructive. The publication process for the proceedings aimed to offer space for the students’ academic development. Two peer reviewers blind reviewed all submitted manuscripts. The opportunity to offer and receive feedback provided a learning opportunity for both the authors and the editorial team.