Symposium for Early Researchers in Social Policy and Intervention (SERSPI)

About the Symposium 

The Symposium for Early Researchers in Social Policy and Intervention (SERSPI) is the Department’s symposium celebrating the work of its emerging scholars. SERSPI is student-led and has been organised annually since 2022. 

The full day gathering brings together DPhil, MPhil, and MSc students from the EBSIPE and CSP streams to present their research, exchange ideas, and engage with faculty and peers in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. 

SERSPI 2025 

This year, SERSPI took place on May 12th at St. Hilda’s College from 9:30 – 6:00 pm. A total of 29 students were invited to present their research whether in the early stages, partway through or at the end of their research projects.  

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This year’s enriched programme included plenary speakers, faculty-led panels, and three dynamic presentation formats: 

Long Presentations 

10-minute talks supported by 5–11 slides, ideal for deeper exploration of your methodology, findings, and conclusions. Followed by a 10-minute Q&A session within your themed panel. 

Short Presentations 

Concise 5-minute talks supported by 3–6 slides, focusing on clarity and key takeaways. Delivered within a themed session, followed by a shared 10-minute Q&A. 

New This Year: Table Top Presentations 

A highly interactive format designed for idea exchange. 

7–8 round tables, each hosted by a presenter. 

Presenters gave a 5-minute overview of their project, followed by 3 minutes of feedback from table participants. 

After each round, there was a short rotation break, and participants moved to the next table, allowing presenters to engage with multiple groups. 

The day featured a rich mix of sessions and opportunities, including: 

  1. Table Top Presentations with rotating peer feedback 
  2. Long & Short Oral Presentations in themed sessions 
  3. Panel Discussion with faculty members 
  4. Networking Opportunities throughout the day 

Themed sessions focused on: 

  1. Mental Health & Health Policy 
  2. Housing and Social Inequality 
  3. Child and Family Well-being 
  4. Technology, Policy, and Equity in Education and Welfare 

Venue and further information

All sessions took place at St Hilda’s College across two venues: 

  • Pavilion (Pav): plenary sessions and themed presentations 
  • Jacqueline du Pré Music Building (JdP): table top sessions 

View a map of the college on St Hilda's College website. 

If you have any questions about the symposium or presentation logistics, please contact us at serspi@spi.ox.ac.uk.

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