Hear the word “festival,” and you might immediately think tents, glitter, questionable Portaloo’s, but this one’s a little different. The Summer of Research Festival 2025 is a unique chance to dive into the world of cutting-edge innovation right here on campus (without needing to pack a sleeping bag). From global justice and climate action to food, tech, and even dance, this festival is packed with free events designed to spark discussion and connect you with the incredible research happening at Sussex.

Here’s our pick of events for students, from undergrads to postgrads and ECRs:

Why We Should All Speak for Palestine!
Monday 9th June, 2–4pm
Everyone is welcome to join this event from the Palestine Interdisciplinary Dialogues Series. Perfect for students who care to understand the situation in Gaza more deeply and demonstrate solidarity with our Palestinian friends and colleagues.

Post and Undergraduate (PUG) Conference
Tuesday 10th June, 12–1:30pm
Hear about the inspirational research of your peers in this inclusive, student-led showcase from the faculty of SEM (science, engineering and medicine).  There’s pizza and refreshments on offer while you network too!

Beyond Research World Café
Wednesday 11th June, 12–1:30pm
This unique and inviting session (held in ACCA café) enables relaxed, small-group conversations with your peers and our table hosts, who are all involved in initiatives that support researchers in very different ways.

Collaborate to Innovate: Quantum Technologies Beyond the Physics
Thursday 12th June, 12–1:30pm
Quantum tech sounds intense, but this session breaks it down and shows how it’s changing the world.

Food for Thought: A Workshop Exploring Food Research at Sussex
Thursday 12th June, 2–4pm
From sustainability to nutrition, explore the science of what’s on your plate.

Catalysing Connections: PhD & ECR Diverse Careers Panel
Monday 16th June, 2–3:30pm
Not sure what you want to do when you’ve finished your studies? Hear from researchers who’ve progressed into exciting, unexpected careers.  

Introduction to the Bennett Institute: Tackling the Climate Crisis through Innovation & Policy
Wednesday 18th June, 10–11:30am
Find out how Sussex researchers are turning climate ideas into real-world action.

The Value of Life Laid Bare During and After Conflict
Wednesday 18th June, 2–4:30pm
A moving, multidisciplinary session exploring how conflict reshapes our understanding of life and resilience.

Exploring Ethics in Research 
Thursday 19th June, 10–11:30am.
This event is perfect for students of all levels looking to understand how we can protect the rights of human and animal subjects involved in research. Join the discussion with speakers from Sussex AI and the Autism Community Research Network.

Dancing Belonging: Fostering belonging through ballet and jazz
Friday 20th June, 10–12pm
No dance experience is needed for this fun workshop, just come along to the sports centre and explore how movement can build community.

Postgraduate Three Minute Thesis Final and Adam Weiler Impact Panel
Friday 20th June, 2–4pm
Watch Sussex Postgrads pitch their research projects in just three minutes. It’s fast, fun and full of insight!

Whether you're nerding out on a subject close to your heart or just here for the snacks and inspiration, come and get a taste of what your fellow students and staff are up to. It’s your chance to get involved, get connected and maybe even get a free biscuit along the way.

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