Laura (she/her) is a Lecturer in Criminology and PhD researcher at Birmingham City University. Her research focuses upon desistance from serious offending and the importance of the community in this process. Her teaching interests include: Policing, vulnerabilities, ethics and qualitative research methods. Laura’s PhD is entitled ‘Informal support arrangements for those released from custody, who have been convicted of sexual offences against children’ and explores the contribution made by informal supporters (friends, family members and partners) to the desistance for those with convictions for sexually offending against children. Twitter: @LauraCrimRiley

Your Academic Journey

Applications and Funding

Career and Networking

Thesis and Dissertation

Stops And Starts: The Growing Pains Of The PhD

Get insights from a PhD candidate’s reflective diary on the process of starting, struggling with, and ultimately completing a doctoral research project. Discover the trials and tribulations of getting ethical approval, recruiting participants, and navigating the pandemic while working towards a degree.

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What Do I Know Three Years On?

In “What Do I Know Three Years On?” Daniel Walker reflects on his PhD journey and offers advice to those embarking on a similar path. He emphasizes the importance of perspective, self-awareness, and remaining humble, and shares a reflection exercise that helps maintain focus and motivation.

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Tonight, I’m an Academic Star: Top Tips for Applying, Preparing and Presenting at Conferences 

The idea of attending and presenting at academic conferences can seem incredibly intimidating for PhD students. Drawing on his wide range of experiences at conferences around the world, this PhD candidate provides advice and tips on applying, preparing, attending, and presenting at an academic conference. Remember to enjoy your brief time in the spotlight, and remember your presentation is really only a small element of the event!

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The Secret Power Of Blogging

Discover the secret power of blogging for PhD students looking to combat boredom and isolation. Kerry McPherson shares her experience starting a collaborative science communication blog and how it led to networking, expanding her communication skills, learning, and even career opportunities.

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