On Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 May, GuildHE Research will host its fourth Doctoral Festival 2026 at Northeastern University London, bringing together doctoral and early-career researchers from across its member institutions. The event will showcase the breadth and diversity of disciplines, perspectives, and approaches that define research and doctoral study within the GuildHE Research community.

The festival has become a key fixture in the postgraduate research calendar, offering a dedicated space for the emerging research community to build networks, develop skills, and share ideas. Building on the success of the 2025 event, hosted by the University of Winchester, the 2026 festival will continue to support researchers navigating an increasingly complex and fast-changing research environment.

The event comes at a time of significant pressure and transition for the UK research system, with a continued policy focus on economic growth, constrained public finances, and sustained emphasis from funders on research integrity, inclusion, and disciplinary breadth. Against this backdrop, sector leaders highlight the growing importance of strong, collaborative research communities.

This year’s GuildHE Doctoral Festival offers a vital opportunity for postgraduate and early career researchers to connect at a time of significant change for research in the UK and globally.

Creating space for shared learning and exchange has never been more important, and building a strong, inclusive research community remains central to GuildHE Research’s mission. The festival supports researchers to develop skills, explore impact, and build confidence and networks, while reflecting on how their work can shape their fields and contribute to society. We are delighted to welcome participants and look forward to the conversations and collaborations ahead.

Professor Emile Bojesen, Director of GuildHE Research, and Director of Research and Innovation at the University of Winchester

The two-day programme will combine practical workshops, expert-led sessions, and opportunities for peer exchange. Day one will focus on how postgraduate researchers can forge their own path in research, including exploring different approaches to research practice and navigating the doctoral journey. Day two will centre on research impact and public engagement, supporting participants to connect their work with audiences beyond academia.

A standout highlight of the festival is the opportunity for participants to present their research in a supportive and inclusive environment, offering a dynamic platform to showcase the depth, originality, and impact of work across GuildHE institutions. The experience not only celebrates academic excellence, but also empowers researchers to build confidence, refine their communication skills, and engage diverse audiences with clarity and purpose.

 

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For media enquiries and interviews, please contact Julia Roche, Interim Communications Manager:

Telephone 07418 069 364  / Email [email protected]

 

Notes to editors:

  1. A copy of the Doctoral Festival programme can be viewed here.
  2. The doctoral festival is available to doctoral students from GuildHE Research member institutions.
  3. GuildHE is an officially recognised representative body for UK Higher Education, championing distinction and diversity in the sector. Our members are small and large, rural and urban, practice-based and online, publicly and privately funded. The diversity of our membership enables us a unique and valuable perspective into the challenges and opportunities within, and for, the sector at any given time. 
  4. GuildHE members are renowned for their practical, industry-relevant education, research and innovation - which meet critical skills needs for the twenty-first century, while making a significant contribution to regional growth, industry development and the national economy. As an organisation, we lead the charge for a dynamic and future-focused sector comprising a variety of institutional types to ensure the opportunities and success we know underpin its strength. We empower members to drive progress and shape a better future.
  5. GuildHE Research strengthens research capacity in smaller and specialist UK higher education institutions, shaping sector policy, providing peer support, and enabling collaboration for research leaders.