PAIS annual conference 2026 showcases research excellence and celebrates academic achievement
Published on 05.11.26
On 4 November 2026, we gathered at the Scarman Conference Centre for our annual PAIS Conference, a day that showcased the breadth, depth and impact of research and teaching across the department.
Bringing together colleagues from across politics, international studies, political theory and interdisciplinary teaching, the conference provided a valuable opportunity to share research, exchange ideas and celebrate the achievements of members of our academic community.
The day opened with parallel panels exploring a diverse range of topics from conflict, education and international development to contemporary challenges in higher education, including student-staff co-creation and the adoption of generative AI across disciplines. Throughout the morning, colleagues engaged with questions of global politics, ethics, democracy, policy learning and political judgment, reflecting the intellectual diversity that characterises PAIS research and teaching.
"It's the one day where we all get to come together as a Department and celebrate our collective research strength and culture. This year is extra special because we are also holding two outright celebratory panels - one on Mike Saward on becoming an Emeritus Professor, and one on Vicki Squire on winning this year's ISA Distinguished Scholar Award. For me, the conference is testament to how collegial, supportive and inclusive a research environment PAIS is. I can't wait to hear about everyone's current research."
- Dr Marit Hammond, Associate Professor in the Politics of Climate Change
Following lunch, the conference turned to celebration as colleagues, collaborators and friends reflected on the contributions of Professor Michael Saward.
The panel from both within PAIS and beyond highlighted Professor Saward's significant influence on democratic theory and political scholarship, with speakers sharing reflections on his work, leadership and impact on the field.
Research presentations continued throughout the afternoon, with panels examining environmental politics, international organisations, climate governance, terrorism, authoritarianism, migration, borders, political economy and imperialism.
The discussions demonstrated the department's engagement with some of the most pressing challenges facing societies today, from sustainable transitions and democratic renewal to migration, inequality and global security.
Our second celebratory session recognised Professor Vicki Squire's recent recognition as an ISA Distinguished Scholar in International Political SociologyLink opens in a new window.
Speakers from Warwick and beyond reflected on Professor Squire's internationally recognised contributions to migration, borders and political sociology, highlighting the influence of her scholarship on both academic debate and public understanding.
Alongside the programme, the conference provided an important space for colleagues to reconnect, develop new collaborations and learn more about one another's work.
The introduction of the inaugural PAIS Teaching Network panel also highlighted the department's growing commitment to sharing innovative teaching practice alongside cutting-edge research.
"It is great to see PAIS researchers out in full strength for our annual conference. Our panel expertise ranges from political theory to international development, from policy to pedagogy, from environmental politics to authoritarianism and from migration to capitalism — and lots more in-between! I am always inspired by the breadth of our collective research and the impressive global perspectives that colleagues bring to so many important issues of our times.”
- Professor Vicki Squire
Event highlights
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