Academic conferences can be both exciting and challenging for students and early-career researchers. They provide a wealth of opportunities to share research, engage in discussions, and build professional networks, but the fast-paced environment can make it difficult to fully explore ideas and benefit from constructive feedback. The YSI – RSA Academy of Regional Studies is designed to address these needs, offering young scholars a unique platform to enhance their experience at the RSA Annual Conference.
The Academy creates a supportive and interactive setting for PhD students and early-career researchers to deepen their engagement with the academic community. It provides dedicated time for participants to showcase their work, receive thoughtful and thorough feedback, and refine their ideas in preparation for the main conference. By fostering collaboration and mentorship, the Academy helps participants advance their research and strengthen their professional connections in the field of Regional Studies.
The YSI – RSA Academy is committed to bringing together a highly motivated group of PhD students and early-career researchers specialising in Regional Economics, Economic Geography, Urban Studies, or related fields. It provides an invaluable platform for presenting research, sharing experiences, and receiving guidance from established senior scholars in Regional Studies. By explicitly addressing the distinct needs of doctoral candidates and post-PhD researchers, the Academy offers tailored opportunities for academic growth.
- For PhD students, the Academy focuses on advancing their theses
Academic conferences can be both exciting and challenging for students and early-career researchers. They provide a wealth of opportunities to share research, engage in discussions, and build professional networks, but the fast-paced environment can make it difficult to fully explore ideas and benefit from constructive feedback. The YSI – RSA Academy of Regional Studies is designed to address these needs, offering young scholars a unique platform to enhance their experience at the RSA Annual Conference.
The Academy creates a supportive and interactive setting for PhD students and early-career researchers to deepen their engagement with the academic community. It provides dedicated time for participants to showcase their work, receive thoughtful and thorough feedback, and refine their ideas in preparation for the main conference. By fostering collaboration and mentorship, the Academy helps participants advance their research and strengthen their professional connections in the field of Regional Studies.
The YSI – RSA Academy is committed to bringing together a highly motivated group of PhD students and early-career researchers specialising in Regional Economics, Economic Geography, Urban Studies, or related fields. It provides an invaluable platform for presenting research, sharing experiences, and receiving guidance from established senior scholars in Regional Studies. By explicitly addressing the distinct needs of doctoral candidates and post-PhD researchers, the Academy offers tailored opportunities for academic growth.
- For PhD students, the Academy focuses on advancing their theses or research papers, both theoretically and empirically.
- For early-career researchers, the emphasis shifts to developing effective writing strategies and publishing impactful research.
Senior scholars play a dual role in the Academy, serving as both speakers and mentors. Their involvement fosters meaningful connections between young researchers and a community of leading experts in the field.
Academy Activities
The structure of this one-day Academy (June 15) includes three key components:
- Round Tables: Opening and closing sessions led by renowned experts in Regional Studies.
- Research Presentations: Opportunities for young scholars to present their work and receive constructive feedback from both mentors and peers.
- Workshops with Mentors: Interactive sessions tailored to the needs of selected PhD students and early-career researchers, providing targeted guidance and support.
Application and Selection Process
PhD students and early-career researchers accepted to present at the RSA Annual Conference are invited to apply for the Academy. The application process involves two steps:
- Step 1 – Submission of Abstract and Motivation Letter
Applicants must submit their accepted conference abstract by May 15th 2026 via the application portal. Abstracts will be assessed based on clarity, relevance, and originality, with consideration of the research question, methodology, and preliminary results. Selected applicants will be notified by 20th May 2026.
- Step 2 – Submission of Full Working Paper
Selected participants must submit a full working paper (drafts are acceptable) by June 5th 2026. Submission instructions will be provided to successful applicants. Only those who submit a full paper will be eligible to participate in the Academy.
Up to 10 young scholars will be selected for the Academy.
Please indicate whether you will be presenting at the main conference or not. Please be aware that attending and/or presenting at the conference requires a separate submission and registration process. It is important to note that YSI funding does not cover any potential conference fees.
Support and Logistics
The workshop is free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all selected young scholars..
By creating an inclusive and dynamic learning environment, the YSI – RSA Academy supports the academic and professional development of young researchers, equipping them with the tools and connections needed to thrive in their careers.
