MEMSA Conference at Durham University, co-organised by MLAC PhD researcher Ava Siena Cohen. The event brings together international postgraduate students—including contributors from MLAC’s Spanish, French, and Italian sections—highlighting the vitality and interdisciplinarity of Durham’s research and postgraduate community.
The Department of Modern Languages and Cultures at Durham University is delighted to celebrate the strength and initiative of its postgraduate community with the announcement that registration is now open for the 20th Medieval and Early Modern Student Association (MEMSA) Conference.
Co-organised by our very own MLAC PhD candidate Ava Siena Cohen (Italian Studies and Art History), whose research explores the reception of Artemisia Gentileschi in the twentieth century, the conference is a testament to the vibrancy, leadership, and collaborative spirit of our doctoral researchers.
Taking place on 13–14 July 2026 at St John’s College, Durham, this year’s theme—“Connection, Conversation, and Contention: Encounters in the Medieval and Early Modern World”—brings together 36 postgraduate speakers from a wide range of disciplines and international backgrounds.
We are especially pleased to highlight the presence of three additional presenters from MLAC, representing Spanish, French, and Italian Studies, further showcasing the breadth and interdisciplinarity of research within the department.
The conference will also feature keynote lectures by Dr Lisa Kattenberg, Dr Natalie Goodison, and Professor Stuart Carroll, offering participants valuable insights into current research in the field.
Beyond the academic programme, attendees will have opportunities to build networks and exchange ideas in an engaging and welcoming environment. Registration (£30) includes refreshments and lunches, with optional activities such as:
Location: St John’s College, 3 South Bailey, Durham
Registration deadline: 20 June 2026
🔗 Register here
📩 For enquiries: memsa.conference@durham.ac.uk
We warmly invite students and researchers to join us in Durham for what promises to be an intellectually stimulating and socially enriching event.
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