Report from RGS-IBG Urban Geography Research Group Bursary Recipient Kathryn Miller, PhD student in the Lancaster Environment Centre
I am hugely grateful to the RGS-IBG Urban Geography Research Group for a bursary to attend the RGS-IBG PGR Mid-term Conference in London, on April 24 & 25, 2025. I shared initial findings from my multi-disciplinary research on how UK air quality activism is working towards achieving air quality justice. I discussed responses from interviews I did in 2024 with activists on their use (or not) of scientific evidence, and outlined plans for an upcoming participatory project to work with one of the urban grassroots groups I interviewed in which we will measure air pollution in south Manchester. The opportunity to present to a supportive and welcoming audience was rewarding and confidence-building. The discussion following my talk gave valuable insight and pointers for progressing with my analysis.
This was my second Mid-term, and I have recommended it to colleagues because I’ve found it a convivial space to meet postgrads from across the UK and beyond. This year, I caught up with colleagues I met last year and also made great new contacts – one of whom gave a talk to the Lancaster University human geography group as part of a ‘work in progress’ seminar series that I organise. I had so many interesting conversations and heard about many fascinating research projects and also enjoyed all three keynotes.
Kathryn Miller presenting at the RGS-IBG PGR Mid-term Conference on Thursday April 24, 2025.
