This year’s theme focussed on demystifying the publishing process and providing practical, experience based guidance to researchers at the early stages of their publishing journeys.
The workshop opened with introductions and a discussion around the question, ‘Why do you think publishing journals matters?’ This prompted thoughtful conversation, setting the tone for an open and supportive exchange of ideas across the following two days.
This was followed by a panel discussion on ‘Disciplinary approaches to journal publication’, featuring CKS staff who shared insights into their own publishing experiences, offering practical advice on navigating expectations of publishing.
The next session was delivered by Jennifer Coats, Professor of Japanese Studies at the University of Sheffield, who drew on her extensive publishing experience and included generous reflections on her career. She also encouraged participants to think strategically about positioning their research for publication.
The day concluded with a series of 20 minute mentoring sessions, pairing ECRs with CKS academics to discuss their draft ideas for journal articles.
Day two began with a group discussion centred around the question ‘How do you write?’. Participants shared what motivates them, where and when they write best and strategies for maintaining motivation.
We were then joined by Dr Robert Winstanley-Chesters, Managing Editor of the European Journal of Korean Studies, who delivered a presentation offering an Editor’s perspective on publishing. He offered examples of successful articles and provided detailed technical guidance on structuring submissions, using submission systems effectively and formatting manuscripts in line with publisher specifications. He also discussed what editors and publishers look for in submissions and the vital role of the peer review process in strengthening academic work.
A subsequent panel session focused more specifically on ‘How to handle peer reviews’, featuring CKS staff sharing accounts of the peer review process, including how to handle rejection and critical feedback, and how to build resilience.
The workshop concluded with a discussion around ‘Using AI tools in research’, exploring both opportunities and limitations and encouraging participants to think critically about ethical use of AI in academic writing.
