This event aims to convene researchers to explore innovative, interdisciplinary research on Latin America and the Caribbean and offer a specialised training space for the needs of researchers from and connected with Latin America and the Caribbean. We welcome submissions from any disciplines that challenge traditional paradigms, introduce novel methodologies, and offer fresh perspectives on the region's complex realities.  

The forum is aimed at PGR students (masters by research and PhD researchers) and early career researchers studying or working on topics connected to Latin America and the Caribbean at British universities. It is particularly well-suited for people who want to present their work, receive feedback, and engage in professional development. 

The agenda includes panel sessions (to discuss papers),  workshops on professional development, and networking opportunities. The forum will include structured feedback from respondents, and we invite researchers from all career levels and areas to express their interest in participating in this role.   

Conference Theme: 

The theme for this year's conference is “Beyond the Usual Suspects: Emerging Research and New Perspectives on Latin America and the Caribbean.” We encourage submissions that interpret this theme broadly, including methodological, epistemic, and thematic perspectives on it. Contributions that explore underrepresented topics and multidisciplinary perspectives are also encouraged. 

Topics of interest include, but are not limited to: 

• Innovative theoretical frameworks in Latin American and Caribbean studies 
• Interdisciplinary approaches to regional issues (including, but not limited to, climate change, housing, discrimination, research cultures and health) 
• Comparative studies that bring the region into dialogue with other parts of the world 
• Research applying innovative or historically grounded methodologies and/or epistemic principles  
• Investigations into the role of Latin America and the Caribbean within global contexts 

Submission Guidelines: 

• Abstracts must be no longer than 250 words and focus on how your research engages with Latin America and/or the Caribbean and the forum's topic. 
• Additionally, please include a brief biography (up to 150 words), considering your academic affiliation, research interests, and contact information. 
• Submissions are open to postgraduate students (Masters and PhD) and early career researchers. 

The deadline for the call for papers is May 15th, 2024. Participants selected as presenters will be notified in late May. Participants who wish to be respondents can sign up until June 15th. We encourage you to register as a respondent.  

Registration: 

Details regarding registration will be provided upon acceptance of abstracts. This event has no registration cost. 

For any inquiries, please contact the organising committee at clacspgrforum2024@group.newcastle.ac.uk 

Conference Organizing Committee: Nayara Albrecht, Bernardo Carvalho de Mello and Vic Riveros