The MA Thesis Review is aimed at taught postgraduate students considering an MA dissertation topic related to East Asia. A panel of PhD researchers will ask questions, offer advice, and give comments based on a 150- to 200-word abstract and a 5-minute talk. This will provide a new perspective and encourage further reflection on the proposal before the formal MA dissertation process. It is a final opportunity to test out ideas and a chance to experience a common hallmark of the academic experience for those considering pursuing a career in academia: the review process. However, it is first and foremost, an advisory process, so participants are encouraged to ask the reviewers any questions they have regarding not only their comments and feedback, but also about MA dissertation-writing more generally.

It is being held as an all-day event and will be catered. Participants are encouraged to stay for the whole process to watch their colleagues' presentations, exchange opinions in an informal setting, and talk with the panel in a more informal setting. Likewise, available colleagues, researchers and students are encouraged to attend the process to offer their own insights more informally during Q&As or the breaks between presentations.

The outline and structure of the process is available to download here.

Participants should submit a 150- to 200-word abstract by Thursday 13th January 2022, along with their availability for the review on 19th January 2022, this will help the organisers assign presentation time-slots to everyone's convenience. For any questions, please contact the EASG at easg@warwick.ac.uk.

Review Panel Members

Chung Baek

Chung's doctoral research examines climate-induced displacement, migration and everyday resilience in Myanmar, through the lens of gender. She frames her research in Myanmar in terms of everydayness, focusing on continuity rather than rupture alone. She is particularly interested in the constant and complex negotiation of gendered roles and the sustained process of reconstruction of rhythms in individuals and wider society. Visit Chung's Warwick webpage here.

Veronica Barfucci

Veronica's doctoral research is focused on the evolution of Japan’s security policy beyond East Asia and the grand strategic shift that occurred under Prime Minister Abe Shinzō following the so-called “Abe Doctrine”. She is particularly interested in analysing how Japan's security engagement in the African continent fits into the country's grand strategic thinking. Visit Veronica's Warwick webpage here.

Xinyuan Ren

Xinyuan's doctoral research focuses on Chinese nationalism and foreign policy, especially the development of nationalist discourses and the relationship with Chinese foreign policymaking since the 17^th National Congress of the Chinese Communist Party. He is also interested in Sino-Japanese relations in particular the territorial dispute in the East China Sea.

Junil Yoon

Junil’s doctoral research is focused on Japan’s changing national identity and foreign policy. Applying the concepts of ontological security and securitisation, he is particularly interested in analysing the impact emotional narratives of traumatic events have on Japan’s national identity and foreign/security policy.