As part of the Engaged Research Conference, we invite contributions across a variety of engaging and impactful presentation formats. Explore the options below and submit your abstract by 30 May 2025.
1. Keynote speakers (By invitation only)
Keynote sessions set the tone of the conference with high-level insights from leading academics, policymakers, and practitioners. These thought leaders will explore the evolving role of engaged research in addressing societal challenges.
- Format: 45–60-minute plenary talk + moderated Q&A
- Themes May Include:
- Bridging knowledge and society through engaged research
- Best practices in multi-sectoral research collaborations
- Policy influence and social justice impacts of research
2. Panel discussions
Panels bring together diverse voices to explore practical challenges and opportunities in engaged research. These interactive discussions will highlight real-world applications and foster inclusive debate.
- Format: 90-minute moderated session with 3–5 panellists
- Themes may include:
- Community-led knowledge production
- Research and policymaking
- Digital tools for inclusive research
- Ethics and inclusivity in practice
- Abstract Requirements:
Up to 500 words, including topic, objectives, panellist bios, and key discussion questions.
3. Research papers & case study showcases
Share your latest findings, methodological innovations, or real-world case studies. These sessions offer a platform to contribute to the scholarly and practical knowledge base of engaged research.
- Format: 20-minute presentation (incl. 5 minutes for Q&A)
- Themes may include:
- Community partnership case studies
- Epistemic and social justice
- Research translation and brokering
- Evaluating the impact of engaged research
- Abstract Requirements:
Up to 500 words, covering background, methodology, key findings, and relevance.
4. Interactive workshops
Workshops are designed for experiential learning, skills development, and practical tool-sharing. These sessions should be interactive and promote collaborative problem-solving.
- Format: 90-minute interactive session
- Themes may include:
- Tools for participatory research
- Navigating ethics in institutional settings
- Digital platforms for collaboration
- Impact assessment strategies
- Abstract requirements:
Up to 500 words, including objectives, format, engagement methods, and outcomes.
5. Networking sessions
These facilitated sessions aim to spark new collaborations and knowledge exchange among engaged research stakeholders.
- Duration: 60–90 minutes
- Structure:
- Intro (10–15 min)
- Focused discussion (30–45 min)
- Collaboration mapping (15–20 min)
- Wrap-up (10 min)
- Themes may include:
- Cross-sector partnerships
- Funding and grant collaboration
- Regional and global networks
- Early career researcher support
- Sector-specific engagement (e.g., health, education, environment)
- Abstract requirements:
Up to 300 words, including:- Title
- Facilitator(s) & affiliation
- Objectives & target participants
- Session format & outcomes
- Any technical/logistical needs
Abstract submission
All abstracts should be submitted via the conference website by 30 May 2025.
Submit your abstract
For queries, contact:
Akhona Mncadi: amncadi@hsrc.ac.za Marilyn Couch: MACouch@hsrc.ac.za