What are researchers in social sciences working on at the moment? Eight PhD students presented their research last Friday during PhD day. Their work ranged from Dutch consumer debt to the impact of tuberculosis stigma on sexual health in Bangladesh.

The day was organised for PhD students from Radboud Social Cultural Research (Radboud SCR). The day included presentations by speakers who shared their research overview and then fielded audience questions. Participants discussed their fieldwork experiences and how they conceptualised their topic. They also had the freedom to open up about obstacles they’ve faced, which was a great opportunity for peers to chime in with advice.

Students are preparing for fieldwork in numerous international places

The hosts, PhD students Dide van Eck, Simon Kuijpers and Roos van der Zwan not only wanted to help students gain experience presenting their research, but also to facilitate a social gathering to widen students’ support networks with their peers. Perspectives proved to be quite international, as PhD students are preparing for fieldwork in numerous international places, such as Bolivia, North Africa, and the UK. Others focus their attention on issues right here at home in the Netherlands. For example, PhD student Michiel Swinkels is exploring how Dutch integration policy affects migrants and second generation citizens, as well as how government officials manage ethnic diversity. Co-host Dide van Eck is also doing work close to home, as she is exploring perspectives of inclusion and the sentiment of belonging among low-paid workers.

Elderly LGBT people
Presenter Krystel Honsbeek expressed that the event helped to celebrate what a broad range of work is currently being done at Radboud. ‘It’s so nice to meet other PhD students with similar topics. The presentations were very energising; it’s great to hear a short presentation that keeps people’s attention, and then engage in an informal discussion of the work as a group.’ Krystel is currently studying the care needs of elderly LGBT people who seek medical attention in Nijmegen and Den Bosch.

PhD candidate Saskia Glas remarked, ‘It’s important for students to meet each other. Sometimes we are working away in our offices and don’t always get to know one another, even if we pass in the halls.’ Saskia is currently studying gender attitudes within Muslim feminism. Co-organiser Roos van der Zwan concurred with the importance of familiarity among doctoral students. ‘Some departments are very close and others are not, so we want to stimulate meeting and sharing. It’s great, not only for research help but for informal support. This is the second edition of PhD Day, so we hope to make it a tradition. It’s a great opportunity to socialise and feature your academic work by brainstorming with your fellow colleagues.’