The Hellenic Society is delighted to launch its Regional Networks scheme, which seeks to support students, scholars, and enthusiasts of Hellenic studies across the United Kingdom and Ireland. By fostering collaboration and community, the scheme aims to create a vibrant network of Hellenists, strengthening local and regional connections in the discipline.
These regional networks aim to bring together Hellenists at all stages of their academic and professional journeys. They provide an informal but professional environment where postgraduate students, early-career researchers, established academics and subject enthusiasts can meet, exchange ideas, and build lasting professional relationships. For many postgraduate and early-career scholars, particularly those working in smaller institutions or less well-connected areas of the UK and Ireland, these networks offer valuable opportunities to connect with colleagues.
Each regional network will operate as a flexible, locally-led community. Participants will be invited to join online mailing lists or messaging groups to share updates, ask questions, and stay informed about Hellenic Society activities relevant to their region. Examples of possible activities include:
- Informal social gatherings at the start of the academic year.
- Academic presentations or specialist talks.
- “Lightning talk” events, where participants briefly present their current work or research interests.
- Book exchanges or small discussion groups focused on specific areas of study.
- Mini-conferences and workshops.
- Informal meetings at restaurants, cafés, or university venues that help maintain a sense of community throughout the year.
These activities are designed not only to strengthen professional relationships but also to promote the benefits of membership of the Hellenic Society.
Upper Thames Network and South West & Wales Network
Two pilot networks have been established: the “Upper Thames Network” organised by Charlie Baker (University of Oxford) and the “South West and Wales Network” led by Frances Pickworth (University of Bristol). The Upper Thames Network was launched at Corpus Christi College, Oxford on 14th October 2025, involving students at the Universities of Oxford and Reading (Images) and a second event at the Ure Museum in Reading is currently being planned. Interested members can join the Upper Thames Whatsapp by visiting:
https://tinyurl.com/4b76a833
The launch event for the South West and Wales Network was held at the University of Bristol in October 2025 (Image) and a second workshop, also aimed at PGRs and ECRs, took place at the University of Exeter in March 2026, organised by Emma Nicholson. The PGRs in this Network have also setting up a hybrid work-in-progress seminar based at Exeter. If you live and/or work in the South West and Wales area and would like to get involved in the Network, please do sign up to the mailing list here:
https://gaggle.email/join/hellenic-soc-sw-wales@gaggle.email.
You can address any questions about the Network to Frances at f.pickworth@bristol.ac.uk.
Call for Volunteers!
While the regional networks operate largely independently, the Society supports them through publicity, communication, and financial assistance for events, where possible. Each network is co-ordinated by a volunteer “anchor” member who helps organise events and maintains communications. Becoming a regional network anchor is a great opportunity to get involved with the work of the Hellenic Society in promoting Hellenic Studies within your local area. We are looking for volunteers to launch, and act as anchors for, regional networks elsewhere in the UK. Those at any academic career stage are welcome to apply, including postgraduate students, Early Career Academics, and established academics. If you are interested in this opportunity, please send your proposal to Dr Fiona Haarer: secretary@hellenicsociety.org.uk.
