Launched in 2022, Research Month (RM) is an annual program of research events curated by the Lectorate which take place over the course of a month every January. The focus is on sharings of diverse research practices by students, teachers, researchers, alumni, professionals, artists-in-residence and guests in a way that pluralises ideas of what research can be for both internal and external audiences. Events include performances, symposia, workshops, talks, installations, exhibitions, walks, listening sessions and social gatherings.  

Research Month is the time of the year when we focus on widening audiences for the research that is already happening within the ATD. 

Since 2024, guided by the vision of our researcher Rajni Shah, we have been particularly focused on the question of how to reach students who might automatically dismiss themselves from the label ‘researcher’ because of life experiences within systems that are biased against them. 

For example, we host events in public spaces in the academy, and natural hangout spots, as well as having a presence in the library. People can join for the duration that serves them and can be in the space with full, some or no participation. We use explicitly inclusive language. And we also include catering at each event, with an understanding that nourishment and wellbeing are a core part of the work.