Regular Activities

Research Courses
A minimum of two substantive courses that present ongoing research on peace and conflict are offered annually. These are taught by scholars from PRIO, NTNU and UiO, or by invited international experts. Examples of potential topics for these courses include international and civil war, conflict resolution and peacebuilding, security, and the diversity of violence. Courses also address cross-cutting themes like gender, migration, religion and climate change, as related to core questions of peace and conflict research.

Methodology Courses
It is recommended that the PhD students follow at least one methodology course. In 2011, the following courses were offered:
▪ Qualitative Research Methods and the Study of Civil War
▪ Quantitative Research Methods
▪ Fieldwork Methodology

Introduction to Peace and Conflict Research
Key concepts and topics of peace and conflict studies, introduced by PRIO researchers.

Course in Scholarly Writing and Presentation
All research school participants attend this 3-day workshop which takes students systematically through the most problematic areas of scholarly writing: audience, core argument, and structure. It also covers giving and receiving feedback, developing good writing habits, and how to give effective presentations.

Symposium
The members of the research school meet in one or two internal workshops per semester of about two days to present their work and comment on the presentations of fellow students. When appropriate, tutoring professors are invited as commentators. The symposiums build on skills learned in the writing workshop.

Project Development Skills
The research school offers elective courses in project development and grant writing.

PRIO Junior Researchers’ Forum (JRF)
All research school participants are invited to participate in the Junior Researchers’ Forum at PRIO. The JRF is a forum where early-career researchers can talk about their ongoing work and get feedback from their peers. Members comprise PhD candidates, MA students and research assistants from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines. The JRF meets monthly on Mondays at lunchtime at PRIO, and one or two members present their work each session.

Open Seminars
The research school organizes open seminars in cooperation with the students in the research school. These are based on the interests and projects of the school members.

International Presentations
The PhD Candidates are encouraged to present their work at international conferences and seminars, and receive guidance in this connection.