Political Institute of Action Research

Welcome to the Political Institute of Action Research (PIAR)!

We are a Student-run Think Tank aiming to facilitate change locally through objective, factual action research and discourse. Each term we take a survey of what issues are the most pressing to the local community and choose the two most named ones as our focus groups for the term. Moreover, we are a proud member of the Scotland's Future Series, a programme sponsored by the University to take a leading role in  shaping  the Future of Scotland.

To tackle the issues, we develop a thorough understanding of all underlying factors and actors in these issues, conduct interviews and surveys, as well as organise workshops, speaker panels and charity outreach events. Ultimately, we will be publishing reports and formulate recommendations to the variety of stakeholders involved. Interested? We are running our Action Research Sessions every Thursday, so come along to the  next one!

Action Research Sessions: Thursdays, 7-8pm, Society Room D in the Union

Issues Martinmas semester 22/23:   Affordable Housing and the Economic Accessibility of Higher Education

Join Our Research Teams: We are looking for permanent members to contribute to our weekly sessions and shape our Research going forward. Come along to the next session and speak to us about joining :) 
Drop-Ins: If you are unsure whether you want to become a part of PIAR or just want to contribute on a non-regular basis, the sessions will still be open for all students, staff and locals to drop-in.

*If you are part of another student organisation working on one of our issues, know of any other institutions that might be worthwhile reaching out to, or have some insight you would like to share, please reach out to us!!