Summer School for Young Scholars
Activism in and with Academia: Methodological Skills for Navigating a Complex Relationship
Overview
The ENGAGE.EU Summer School is the result of collaboration between Luiss University, Tilburg University, UT-Capitole, UNWE, Warwick University, and Hush City, a citizen science initiative. It aims to provide a reflective and interactive space for young scholars committed to driving social change through research and teaching. Through interactive sessions, participants will:
- Co-create research with diverse audiences to enhance inclusivity and impact.
- Build synergies with civil society for meaningful collaborations.
- Improve communication and dissemination of research findings to broader audiences.
- Explore diverse teaching methods to enrich student and community learning.
The program also emphasizes the role of scholars in shaping policy and developing real-world solutions for healthier, more sustainable societies. It encourages questioning the status quo, embracing creativity, and adapting to shifting academic funding structures.
Expected Outcomes
- Stronger peer networks within academia, fostering innovative research approaches.
- Opportunities to expand the experience to other institutions through spin-off projects.
- Deeper mutual learning between academia and society.
Format
The Summer School will take place at the Luiss Campus on Viale Romania 32, in Rome from July 1-3, 2025, combining traditional lectures, group work, and experiential learning activities such as sensorial walks and visual documentation. Participants will engage with both theoretical and applied topics, including:
- Research design, ethics, and interdisciplinary methodologies.
- Innovative techniques such as gamification, legal mobilization, and performative research.
- Hands-on sessions with guest lecturers and civil society organizations.
- Key challenges for young researchers, including academic funding, industry-academia partnerships, and research communication.
Application Details
- Eligibility: Open to young scholars broadly defined as aspiring career academics holding precarious or temporary academic positions.
- Capacity: Up to 15 participants.
- Deadline: March 15, 2025
- Requirements: A 2-page CV and a 500-word motivation letter submitted to Dr. Anna Berti Suman (abertisuman@luiss.it).