Xiaohongshu
Welcome to the Community Research Initiative
Also known as "CRIS" to our friends
Here at the Community Research Initiative we act as a bridge between the university and voluntary sector, which includes charities, not-for-profit organisations and social enterprises. We are all about connecting community to classroom, building up your skills as Masters students, and shifting the power dynamics between researchers and research 'subjects'. As Master’s students, there are three ways you can get involved with our programme:
Engaged Masters Dissertation Programme
At the heart of our programme is the opportunity to carry out a collaborative dissertation project. We help you to partner with a voluntary and community sector organisation so you can use your dissertation to solve real world problems AND create a positive social impact. Once you've written up, we'll support you to share your research findings in an accessible format with your partner so you leave a legacy beyond your dissertation. Keen to connect with local communities? There’s two ways you can do this:
Think of the Noticeboard research ideas as seeds for collaboration which you can rework with a community partner so that it works for both of you.
Just so you know, we'll be adding new projects from autumn 2026, but you can take a look at last year's projects for some inspiration!
If you have an idea or organisation you’re really passionate about, we'll connect you for a knowledge exchange. You might instantly click with an organisation or chat to a few potential partners: it's about finding the right fit.
Ready to take your first step towards a collaborative dissertation?
Chat to our friendly team and other students interested in writing a dissertation with our programme. No question is a silly one!
Just so you know, we run our office hours from September to March each year. If you're keen to have a chat with us outside of these times, then just book a 1:1 with our team.
Find out about all the latest opportunities with our community partners, training and networking events - delivered straight to your inbox!
Keen to see what community-engaged projects actually look like? Head over to our dissertation gallery to see how our past students have made a positive social impact with their dissertation research. This could be you!
Eager to delve into the nuts and bolts of our dissertation programme? Have questions about timelines, commitments, and what support we provide? Take a look through the most common questions our students ask us. And if you can't find an answer to your question, save it for our office hours or email us at [email protected].
Curious about how your Masters research could make a difference?
Looking back, I can't imagine not collaborating during my dissertation! I think it would have been a lonely experience. Working with my partner brought new perspectives to my dissertation...It was great to be part of a wider group of people that are interested in creating social impact.
CRIS Dissertation Student, 2024-25
Contact Us
Get in touch with us via email at [email protected]
We are here for YOU at every stage of the community engaged research process. Whether you're curious about where to start, or deep in your research, we offer bespoke support and guidance to all of our students.