The Social Economy Research Network of Ireland (SERNI) is pleased to invite expressions of interest for a PhD Doctoral Research Development Workshop taking place on 18-19 May 2026 at the Centre for Social Innovation, Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin.
This workshop aims to support emerging scholars and foster collaboration in research focused on the broader social economy, including (but not limited to):
- Social economy and social enterprise
- Nonprofit and third sector studies
- Civil society and community development
- Social finance, impact investing, and alternative finance
- Volunteering and civic engagement
The workshop will provide opportunities for PhD researchers to present work-in-progress, receive constructive feedback from peers and senior academics, and engage with a network of scholars committed to advancing knowledge in these fields.
Who should apply?
PhD students at any stage of their research whose work includes any of the themes above are encouraged to submit an expression of interest.
Submission Requirements
- Name, institutional affiliation, and contact details
- Working title of your research
- Abstract (approx. 300 words) summarising your doctoral project
- Stage of PhD (e.g., Year 1, post-fieldwork, writing-up)
Submission Deadline: 9 March 2026, end of the day.
Further details, including schedule, will be shared with selected participants following review of expressions of interest. There is no charge for the workshop; participants will have to cover their own travel and accommodation expenses.
We look forward to supporting the next generation of social economy researchers and strengthening scholarly connections across Ireland and beyond.
Questions and Submissions should be sent via email to:
Dr Sheila Cannon, Associate Professor, Trinity Business School, Trinity College Dublin (TCD). cannonsh@tcd.ie
Dr Ziene Mottiar, Senior Lecturer, School of Hospitality Management and Tourism, Technological University Dublin (TUD). ziene.mottiar@tudublin.ie