Every year, Cumberland Lodge delivers two highly-regarded, interdisciplinary residential student conferences, with the aim of creating a space for participants to learn together, to build networks, understand differences, and enjoy themselves.
Life Beyond the PhD
Our annual Life Beyond the PhD student conference takes place over five days each August. It brings together PhD students and early career researchers from a wide range of backgrounds and disciplines to explore the value of academic research, share experiences, and develop the skills they need for careers within and beyond academia.
With contributions from guest speakers and facilitators, our programme includes:
- a panel of experts exploring how academic research and skills can be applied across a range of careers
- sessions on communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders, including public speaking and digital media writing
- workshops on well-being and overcoming imposter syndrome
- strategies for fostering collaboration and teamwork across disciplines
- exploring the role of academic research in promoting more ethical, inclusive, and just societies.
Alongside workshops and discussions, there will be opportunities to relax, network, and enjoy our historic setting in Windsor Great Park.
Since 2009, Life Beyond the PhD has offered a supportive environment for reflection, collaboration, and career development. Hundreds of postgraduates from over 100 higher education institutions across the UK have taken part, with many highlighting the networks they built here as invaluable to their future work.
Applications open in spring, and places are limited. Some universities run internal application rounds to provide funding for attendance. Please check with your graduate office to see if this support is available to you.
Student Christmas Conference
Since 1947, Cumberland Lodge has opened its doors each December to welcome students from across the world who are studying in the UK. This unique three-day conference offers the chance to take part in thought-provoking conversations and workshops, meet others from a range of universities and experience a traditional Christmas in our historic 17th-century home and surrounding Windsor Great Park.
The interdisciplinary programme is designed to inspire discussion and debate on themes linked to the work of Cumberland Lodge, including Freedom of Religion and Belief, Democracy, the Rule of Law, and Ethical Leadership, supported by guest speakers, facilitators, and performers. Previous conferences have included:
- sustainability and the environment
- social cohesion and intercultural dialogue
- how to argue well and disagree constructively around the table during the holidays.
Alongside seminars and discussions, the programme includes:
- a Christmas carol service at Cumberland Lodge
- a guided winter walk through Windsor Great Park (weather permitting)
- a traditional Christmas dinner, including a visit from Father Christmas
- festive evening entertainment
- opportunities to relax, socialise, and meet students from around the world.
Applications are open from October and final details of the programme are available on our website in December.
