Advancing Research Through Dialogue, Collaboration, and Critique

The increasing complexities of economies and societies demand rigorous, evidence-based research to address real-world challenges. This makes research more crucial, with doctoral research playing a key role in the ecosystem. However, for research to translate into tangible outcomes, it requires sustained dialogue and critical engagement to reach its full potential. This makes knowledge transfer platforms like the SERI-Doctoral Conference (SERI-D) 2026, recently held at the Ahmedabad University campus, important to the creation, sharing, and application of knowledge.

Doctoral scholars, faculty, and practitioners convened for two days of rigorous academic exchange, fostering an environment of critical inquiry and collaborative learning. It embodied the principles of interdisciplinary learning by bringing in diverse perspectives and strengthening research thinking, both core pillars of Ahmedabad University’s pedagogical philosophy. Participants engaged with research spanning education, health, financial markets, climate risk, digital connectivity, and other areas that have direct implications for policy and society.

The conference, organised as part of the Annual Capacity Building Workshop of the Digital Platforms and Women’s Economic Empowerment (DP-WEE) project in collaboration with the Society for Economics Research in India (SERI) and LEAD at Krea University, served as a meaningful platform for advanced graduate students. It enabled early-stage researchers to present their work and receive focused feedback that supports their journey toward publication.

Ahmedabad University also hosted the inaugural “Navigating the Economics Job Market: Mentoring Workshop for Women PhD Students” as part of SERI-D 2026. Organised by SERI, Inclusion Economics India Centre (IEIC), Yale Inclusion Economics (YIE), LEAD at Krea University, and Ahmedabad University, the workshop brought together senior faculty and emerging women economists for an afternoon of rigorous feedback, mentorship, and insightful discussion.

The workshop formed part of the IEIC-led multi-year Women-in-Leadership (WiL) in Economics Initiative, which seeks to strengthen the ability of women economists to thrive, advance, and shape economic research and policymaking in India. Through initiatives focused on evidence generation, mentorship networks, career support, and policy engagement, the programme aims to create stronger pathways for women in the field of economics.

As part of the workshop, ten women PhD students presented early-stage research ideas and participated in small-group mentoring sessions that provided tailored and in-depth feedback. A panel of senior economists also shared practical insights on navigating the academic job market, building professional networks, and addressing challenges faced by women in the profession. By creating structured spaces for mentorship and scholarly exchange, such initiatives contribute meaningfully toward strengthening the representation of women in economics.

With around 50 participants, including experienced discussants from leading institutions, the event fostered rich discussions that went beyond presentations. Expert discussants provided detailed feedback to strengthen both the conceptual frameworks and methodological approaches of the participants' research.

The impact of such initiatives extends beyond academia. It supports research that informs policy, addresses developmental challenges, and contributes to economic and social understanding. It helps translate academic inquiry into knowledge that can influence practice, benefiting communities and institutions alike. By embedding research thinking within its pedagogy and fostering experiential, collaborative learning, the University enables scholars to engage meaningfully with real-world challenges. SERI-D reflects this commitment in practice.