The IMISCOE PhD Academy had its Opening Event with new members in October. During the session, both new and continuing members, along with representatives from the Training Committee, had the opportunity to introduce themselves, connect and engage with representatives from the IMISCOE Network Office.
The online event included a small-group activity that focused on getting to know each other, sharing ideas for Academy sessions, and reflecting on peer mentoring. In the breakout discussions, new members presented their research projects, while returning members shared their experiences and lessons learned. Here we share some insights from the IMISCOE PhD Academy members – reflecting the hopes placed in various IMISCOE activities and networks, including but not limited to the IMISCOE PhD Academy.
Motivation and Expectations
An interactive Menti activity revealed that PhD Academy members are highly motivated to participate in IMISCOE’s Standing Committees and contribute to their ongoing work, as well as engaging with the IMISCOE PhD Network in various ways.
The results also showed that participants primarily seek:
- Networking, collaboration, and mutual support,
- Opportunities to discuss their research with peers in their field and a wider academic audience,
- A stronger sense of academic community and connection within the IMISCOE network.
Goals and Anticipated Benefits
Throughout their time in the PhD Academy, participants aim to strengthen various aspects of their professional development, including:
- International collaboration and network-building,
- Strategies for coping with the challenges of PhD life,
- Improved research methods and technical skills,
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement beyond their own fields.
By the end of the program, participants expect to gain:
- Ongoing academic exchange with peers,
- The ability to connect migration research with their own work in both theoretical and practical ways,
- Experience in academic publishing and conference participation,
- Inclusion in an international English-speaking academic environment,
- Visibility and awareness within the migration studies community,
- A more secure and supported research journey through IMISCOE’s network,
- And ultimately, a broader interdisciplinary perspective in their research.
Strong Interest in Peer Mentoring
Most attendees showed a strong wish to join the IMISCOE PhD Academy’s peer mentoring scheme, giving considerable momentum and motivation for the Training Committee to proceed with organising this initiative.
GÖKHAN KAYIR, member of the IMISCOE Training Committee