EASG MA Thesis Review

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.

To participate: 

1. First, notify the EASG of your interest in participating by emailing us at easg@warwick.ac.uk. This clarifies numbers for the event, helping us decide on the location, organise the review panel, and how much food to order from Warwick catering. The deadline for notifying the EASG is Thursday 11^th December 2025.
2. Second, prepare a 150-to-200-word abstract outlining your proposed dissertation to be emailed to the EASG at easg@warwick.ac.uk as an email attachment (a Word document please). The abstract should explain your hypothesis, your reasoning, and the arguments you are referencing. Neither a bibliography, nor references are necessary, but if there are specific scholars you know you will be heavily referencing, feel free to mention them. The abstract is to give the panel some additional background on your proposed topic in addition to your 5-minute talk; it also helps us better organise the panel so you get reviewers knowledgeable on your proposed topic and thus best positioned to give appropriate feedback. The deadline for emailing your abstract to the EASG is Thursday, 15^th January 2026.
3. Third, prepare a 5-minute talk on your proposed topic to be given to the review panel on Wednesday 21^st January 2026. The talk will be informal and should clarify the points outlined in your abstract. You will not be permitted to use PowerPoint slides.

For any questions, please contact the EASG at easg@warwick.ac.uk.

Review Panel Members

David Challenger

David Challenger is a PhD candidate at the University of Birmingham.

June McCabe

June holds a BA from Temple University Japan Campus in international relations and political science and a MA from McGill University in political science. Her doctoral work at PAIS focuses on institutional identity formation and change within the Japanese Self-Defense Forces as it relates to Japan's shifting security identity and ongoing remilitarization.

Harshita Jha

Harshita Jha is a PhD candidate in Politics and International Studies at the University of Warwick, researching inclusive and empowering climate governance in India. Her work examines the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions in advancing participatory, grassroots-led climate action, and she also convenes seminars for PO107: Introduction to Politics.

Link opens in a new wiLink opens in a new window