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Collective Reflection, Critical Conversation, and Community Building

In an era marked by rising global tensions, increasing political and social sensitivity within China, and financial uncertainty across UK higher education institutions, Early Career Researchers (ECRs) in China Studies face growing challenges in both conducting research and sustaining academic careers. This half-day workshop brings together ECRs across the social sciences and humanities to reflect on what it means to study China from within and beyond. Through interactive roundtable discussions and keynote reflections, we will engage with pressing issues around concepts and language in China Studies, methodological innovation and constraints, and the future of careers, collaboration, and community in our field. Alongside space for collective reflection, knowledge production, and sharing experiences, the workshop aims to foster peer support, identify potential areas for collaboration, and build lasting connections among China Studies ECRs working in diverse contexts. Together, we hope to contribute to a more inclusive, resilient, and reflective research community.

Key Themes

1) Rethinking China: Concepts, Language, and Knowledge Production

This theme explores how we conceptualise “China” in our work—whether as a case, a category, or a construct—and how language, translation, and disciplinary norms shape knowledge production. We will reflect on how linguistic hierarchies and conceptual borrowing (from Western or Chinese traditions) influence how China is studied and represented.

2) Researching China in a Shifting Landscape: Methods, Ethics, and Innovation

What methodological challenges and opportunities arise when researching China today? This theme invites reflection on fieldwork access, ethics, digital strategies, and interdisciplinary methods. We’ll share research experiences and consider how to adapt creatively to political, practical, and institutional constraints.

3) Building Careers and Community in China Studies 

How can we sustain research careers in a time of academic precarity, particularly as early career researchers? This theme focuses on potential collaboration, peer support, publishing strategies, and building networks across institutions and disciplines. We’ll also explore how ECRs can contribute to shaping more inclusive, resilient research communities.

Workshop Timetable

China Studies in Uncertain Times: An ECR Workshop 

11:45 – 12:30 — Lunch

12:30 – 12:40 — Welcome & Introductions

Opening remarks and overview of the day

12:40 – 13:10 — Icebreaker: Meet the Table

Participants will be divided into small tables (2–3 depending on numbers). Each person briefly introduces themselves and their research. Each table will then collectively introduce key themes or insights about their members to the wider group.

13:10 – 14:25 

Session I: Concept, Language and Knowledge Production

Keynote reflection with Q&A (25 mins)

Keynote Speaker: Linda Westman (University of Sheffield)

Collective discussion and reflection on themes based on small groups (50 mins)

1. In your research, what concepts do you rely on when studying China—and where do they come from? Are they rooted in ‘Western’ theoretical traditions, Chinese intellectual frameworks, or something in between? What are the risks or benefits of borrowing across contexts?
2. How does the language we use (both spoken and conceptual) shape the kinds of knowledge we produce about China? Have you encountered being “lost in translation”? How does this linguistic glitch help or hinder your understanding and knowledge production about ‘China’? How can we reflect more critically on that?
3. What do we mean when we say “China”? Is it a geographic entity, a political system, a cultural tradition, or a discursive construct? How do different framings of “China” shape the questions we ask, the boundaries of our research, and how our work is received?

14:30 – 15:45 

Session II: Researching China – Methodological Innovation, Challenges and Possibilities

Keynote reflection with Q&A (25 mins)

Keynote Speaker: Gu, Zhonghua (Guangzhou University)

Collective discussion and reflection on themes (50 mins)

1. What methodology or research methods do you use in your study of China? Are they   more traditionally disciplinary or interdisciplinary? What are the pros and cons?
2. Given the changing political and social environment in China, what challenges or barriers (methodological, ethical, or practical) have you faced in conducting research on or in China?
3. Are there any methodological innovations or experiences you would like to share that might help address these challenges and inform how we research China in the future?

15:45 – 16:00 — Coffee & Tea Break

16:00 – 16:45 

Session III: Collaboration & Community: Future of ECR China Studies

Brainstorming and Networking Activity (30 mins)

Building on earlier discussions, each participant will write down a few keywords that describe themselves and highlight key aspects of their research (e.g., topic, concepts, methods). By comparing and matching keywords with others, participants will then be encouraged to engage in conversations—especially across tables—to explore commonalities, overlaps, and potential avenues for collaboration.

The following questions might help participants to start the conversations. At the end of this activity, participants are encouraged to share their insights of the potential future collaboration with others.

Guiding questions:

1. What kinds of collaboration feel most meaningful or realistic at this stage of your career? (e.g., co-writing, co-organising events, reading groups, informal peer support)
2. What are small but achievable ways we can support each other’s work going forward?
3. How can we stay connected beyond this workshop?
4. Do you see potential for interdisciplinary or cross-institutional projects with others in this group?
5. Are there any other forms of support you would like to offer or receive?

Final discussion (10 mins)

What are your hopes, suggestions, or expectations for the future of this ECR China Studies network/workshop series?

16:45 – 17:00 – Closing Remarks