Helen Mullen, a PhD student in the Department of Management Science, was selected to attend the CCI Doctoral Symposium at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia during the summer. The competitive, week-long programme involved 24 students from 11 countries and various international academic mentors, all interested in interdisciplinary study and collaboration relating to creative industries and innovation research.
The symposium is hosted by the Australian Research Council's Centre for Excellence in Creative Industries and Innovation (ARC CCI), a nationally-funded research centre based at Queensland University of Technology, with partner universities located around Australia. The Centre is internationally focused and cross-disciplinary and undertakes both theoretical and applied research in media, cultural and communication studies, law, education, economics and business and information technology.
"It was a fantastic experience," said Helen. "I have been interested in the ARC CCI since its inception and the work being undertaken there fits very closely with my research interests. I felt privileged to be selected for the programme. It was a not-to-be-missed opportunity! I met a diverse range of researchers, some from thematic areas that I didn't know existed, but all with vitality about their subject that was infectious. Fellow students and senior academics were willing to share their knowledge, debate various issues, and give generously of their time to provide guidance about my research. It definitely inspired me!"
The programme included workshops, presentations, campus tours, networking events and 'The Paper Jam', a core element of the week. This involved students presenting to the entire cohort and then hosting a developmental workshop attended by three fellow students and an academic mentor who critiqued the paper and provide guidance on its development.
"The Paper Jam was a great developmental experience in terms of presenting, critiquing, and communicating ideas," said Helen. "Additionally, during the week, I learned about new research methods, expanded my international networks, and gained insight about some fantastic early-stage research that is happening internationally. I also identified some potential areas for future collaboration which I am currently pursuing. As you can probably tell, it was extremely worthwhile."