COST Action COREnet PhD Training School “Communication in Practice-Based Research. Connecting Stakeholders and Perspectives in the Study of Religious Diversity and Migration“.
Research on religious diversity and migration often addresses sensitive topics that can impact participants and interested parties in profound ways. Migrants and religious minorities typically face vulnerabilities in asserting their (social) interests and in their representation in the media. This vulnerability also manifests in public discourse surrounding these groups. The current polarized political climate and the rise of right-wing populist parties in an increasing number of countries in Europe and beyond complicate this situation. On one hand, research-based knowledge is more essential than ever to provide objectivity in emotionally charged debates. On the other hand, the heated nature of discussions can lead to the denigration and misuse of research ideas and projects. Researchers and research participants alike may risk being mocked, antagonized, or experiencing other negative reactions due to their involvement in this work. Furthermore, researchers have an important responsibility to critically analyze public conversations about religion and migration. In light of this context, the training school will focus on the following questions:
- What specific opportunities and challenges exist in research communication within the domain of migration and religious diversity?
- Who are the primary audiences for communication regarding research in this field, and what other stakeholders should be taken into account?
- What types of communication are necessary at different stages of the research process?
- How can social media serve as a space for research and as a platform for research communication?
- In what ways can computer-assisted research contribute to the critical analysis of public dialogues about religious diversity and migration?
- How can research ideas and findings be effectively communicated to research funders?
- What ethical considerations should be recognized when communicating practice-based research in sensitive areas?
- How can research communication be adapted into local and international formats (e.g., advantages and disadvantages of in-person meetings versus webinars)?
The COREnet PhD Summer School, in cooperation with VID Specialized University, provides participants with the opportunity to discuss, receive feedback, and further develop their research projects along with the communication strategies essential to them.
Date: 8 September – 11 September 2025.
Place: VID Specialized University, Campus Oslo, Norway.
Organisers: COST action COREnet & VID Specialized University & Vytautas Magnus University.
The call for applications is here.
