On 14 November 2025 CFE proudly hosted its bi-annual HDR Colloquium – a vibrant showcase of research, dialogue, and connection. The November theme, Communicating Research for Impact, brought together HDR candidates and academics for a day of learning, reflection, and celebration.
A fresh format: 3 slides, 3 minutes
The colloquium introduced a dynamic presentation style designed to sharpen communication and highlight the essence of each research journey. Every HDR candidate distilled their work into three concise lenses: framing the research, designing the inquiry, and envisioning the contribution. This format encouraged clarity, creativity, and confidence, while ensuring every voice was heard.
Reflection and growth
Beyond the presentations, the colloquium created space for HDRs to reflect on their journey – what’s working well, and what remains unresolved. This supportive and developmental environment embraced candidates at all stages, from early proposals to near-completion, reinforcing that research is not about perfection, but about progress and connection.
The CFE HDR Colloquium continues to showcase the breadth of research shaping the future of business, innovation, and society. Our focus this time was on three powerful themes:
- Curiosity | Embracing genuine interest in the work of fellow researchers—listening closely, seeking to understand their methods and contributions, and offering thoughtful feedback. Curiosity also means stepping into the spotlight ourselves, using stage time to invite critique and strengthen our own projects through constructive dialogue.
- Synergy | One of the greatest strengths of a research centre lies in its network effects: the larger and more connected we become, the greater our collective impact. By building on shared theories, methodologies, and data, we accelerate progress and spark ongoing conversations with peers who share our vision.
- Vulnerability | Within a trusted community, presenting research becomes less daunting and more empowering. It creates space to ask for guidance, admit challenges, and grow together. While the PhD journey can often feel solitary, it doesn’t have to be walked alone.
Thank you
Gratitude goes to Kate Taylor, who encouraged our HDRs to continue to push toward research that makes a real-world difference. We also appreciate Dr Emma Schleiger for her insightful advice on shaping a genuine and compelling academic identity.
We are immensely proud of our HDR candidates, whose presentations brought energy, insight, and inspiration to the colloquium. The dedication you bring to your research not only advances knowledge but also sparks new ways of thinking about enterprise and its future. Your contributions remind us of the vital role research plays in shaping innovation and impact.
Our sincere appreciation also goes to our academics whose thoughtful feedback and encouragement added depth to the day. Events like this are made possible by the generosity of those who share their time and expertise, and by the spirit of collaboration that defines our community. Thank you too to our HDR representative, Vibhor Pandey for making the event possible.
At CFE, we are fortunate to belong to a supportive network where ideas are celebrated, challenges are embraced, and success is shared. Thank you to everyone who helped make the colloquium such a memorable and meaningful occasion.
Enjoy the pics!
