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 Our pick of the 15 best academic blogs for 2025.


Academic cultural critique is best served in blog form. Thankfully, there is a slew of academic blogs on the web, waiting to dish. Some blogs commenting on funding and higher education policy. Other blogs mulling over early-career research struggles or musing about the ever-elusive path to tenure. Blogs with tips to help you get to grips with conference etiquette, and with toolkits for surviving academic life.

Whether you want to discover what’s brewing in the world of scholarly publishing or learn what researchers think about particular areas of academia, academic blogs are a great form of online engagement outside of your regular engagement at an academic conference. You could read all day and your journey would be only part-way begun. So we’ve picked the 15 best academic blogs for you to investigate. Here they are, in no particular order:


1. The Thesis Whisperer

“Just like the horse whisperer – but with more pages.” The Thesis Whisperer is the blog of Inger Mewburn, Associate Professor at the University of Melbourne. Inger and her contributing academics contribute thoughtful posts on topics ranging from writing and presenting your work to getting stuff done. The blog also has a helpful review section for PhD-themed books. It’s a newspaper-style blog, that accepts posts from people who have built up extensive experiences as research students or doing their PhD.

In the midst of thesis haze? This academic blog will cheer you on.


Sample blog post: Bold requests


2. The Research Whisperer“Just like the Thesis Whisperer – but with more money.” (Yep, there’s a theme.) The Research Whisperer helps early-career researchers build professional profiles and navigate the sometimes-treacherous channels of academic funding. It’s edited by Tseen Khoo, Lecturer in Research Education and Development at Melbourne’s La Trobe University, and Jonathan O’Donnell a PhD and grant application advisor at RMIT University in Melbourne.

If you’re tackling a funding bid, hit subscribe.


Sample blog post: The care and feeding of critical friends


3. Blog on Math Blogs

Blog on Math Blogs is Anna Haensch, assistant professor at Duquesne University, freelance math writer Evelyn Lamb and Brie Finegold, co-organizer of Women Advancing Arizona Mathematics. Whether it’s misunderstood political polling, AIs that name paint colors (Burf Pink or Hurky White, anyone?), mathematically inspired GIFs, or upping your presentation game, they’ve got it covered.

Visit this blog and ready yourself for a trip down the rabbit hole.


Sample blog post: We Need To Talk


4. Writing for Research

Writing For Research is Patrick Dunleavy, Professor of Political Science & Public Policy at London School of Economics. This academic blog aims to help you master writing “creative non-fiction at a research level”, something easier said than done. Thankfully, it’s packed to the gills with advice on everything from structuring research papers to what to consider when choosing which journal to submit your paper to.

Subscribe and boost your academic writing skills.


Sample blog post: Using social media and open access can radically improve the academic visibility of chapters in edited books


5. Piled Higher and Deeper (aka PHD Comics)

“The comic strip about life (or the lack thereof) in Academia.” PHD Comics is the brain-child of Jorge Cham. Whether you’re battling imposter syndrome or dealing with harsh reviewer comments, Jorge’s been there. And his wry sense of humor makes the chewy bits of academic life a bit more digestible.

Dealing with a nightmare supervisor? This comic will help.


Sample blog post: Average time spent composing one e-mail


6. Get a Life, PhD

“All around me I heard that academia eats at your soul, breaks you down, and does not let you have a life outside of work.” So cheerily writes Tanya Maria Golash-Boza, Professor of Sociology at the University of California, and author of Get a Life, PhD. This academic blogs about finding balance as a researcher and a parent in a world where overwork and stress are endemic.

Searching for work-life balance? Subscribe.


Sample blog post: Why Daily Writing Leads to Productivity


7. GradHacker

GradHacker is an academic blog for graduates looking for “stories, tips, and challenges of others who are experiencing the same things.” Written by a community of bloggers, the topics range from software reviews to disabilities, to how to communicate your research to a general audience. Pretty handy during family holidays.

Like life hacks? GradHacker’s for you. 


Sample blog post: Working, Learning and Life Experiences


8. Patter

Patter is Pat Thomson, Professor of Education at The University of Nottingham. Pat’s research is primarily focused on schools changing to be more engaging and meaningful for young learners. This varied blog is chock-full of posts about everything from refining your research topic, to academic bad behaviour, to taking inspiration from improv.

Subscribe for sound advice with a dash of whimsy.


Sample blog post: deep into writing the thesis? don’t forget to yodelayeehoo


9. Nick Hopwood

Nick Hopwood is the academic blog of an Associate Professor at the University of Technology Sydney. Though Nick largely writes about his work in educational research, his candid posts publicising his rejection in academia have been widely shared. “Success in academia is not about never failing, never being rejected,” he writes. “It is about not allowing rejections to take hold of you. If I preach this but don’t have the gall to match generalisations with concrete detail, I should just shut up.”

Got a stinking rejection recently? This blog will strike a chord.


Sample blog post: My wall of rejection and why it matters


10. Catherine Cronin

If you’re interested in open educational practices and research, the blog of  Catherine Cronin is for you. Catherine is an open education advocate and advisory member of the Open Education Working Group. She’s been heavily involved in research, teaching and advocacy in higher education for over 25 years. And blogs about progress across the communities of open education and digital identity. 

If you’re interested in how higher ed can better support students, staff and communities, this blog is for you.


Sample blog post: Open education in higher education: policy recommendations


11. Research to Action

How useful is research on development issues if it lives and dies within the halls of academia? This research has the potential to save lives and lift people from poverty in developing countries but – crucially – only if it’s actually used by policy-makers and those that lobby them. Research to Action is a global guide to increasing the impact of research. Whether you want to brush up on practical or strategic approaches to increasing the uptake of development research, it’s got something for you. Early-career researchers who want to be more effective and strategic in their communications will also find its many free resources on everything from engaging the public to seeing evidence turned into policy helpful.

Need to get your research into the hands of decision-makers? This blog is for you.


Sample blog post: Partnering for more effective and impactful development research   


12. Prof Hacker

ProfHacker provides tutorials, tips and commentary on pedagogy, productivity and tech in academia and higher education. Whether it’s detailing the latest Google App for academics or highlighting the importance of including voices from the periphery in academic “international” spaces, this is site typified by creativity, generosity and kindness.


Sample blog post: Making international academic spaces international


13. Nadine Muller

Nadine Muller is challenging ideas about what academics look like. This senior lecturer in English Literature & Cultural History at Liverpool John Moores University shares often-overlooked academic skills through her blog. However, her refreshingly honest accounts of living with anxiety and depression and her critical examination of expectations placed on academics make this blog essential reading for those who feel they don’t fit the traditional mould.Interested in the conversations that are redefining what it means to be an academic? Head to Nadine’s blog. 


Sample blog post: The Twilight Zone: After the PhD, Before the Academic Job


14. Faculty focus

Most academics, at some point, inevitably transition to the other side of learning; they move from being students themselves to standing at the front of a seminar room, prepared to teach a group of eager learners. Faculty Focus is a blog on effective teaching strategies for the college classroom. The blog is a useful tool for write-ups on the implementation of teaching improvements. You can also use it as the foundation for workshop activities, and additionally, as a resource for transformative readings to enrich the background context.

Stuck on how to foster critical thinking in politically polarised times, or just need to developing content for an online course? This site is for you.


Sample blog post:  The “Big Bang” of Motivation: Questions That Evoke Wonder in Our Students


15. PhD Life (Warwick University)

This blog shares a diverse range of experiences and advice from PhD researchers. Topics range from managing imposter syndrome to juggling personal life with academic responsibilities. PhD Lifes content is written by current PhD students at various stages of their academic journeys, making it relatable and authentic.

The blog also invites guest contributions, encouraging readers to share their insights and experiences. If you’re navigating a PhD or considering one, this blog serves as an excellent resource for learning and connection.


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Audience seated in a theater, focused on a stage. Many people with various hair colors, mostly from the back.

Your Guide to Academic Conferences: Plan, Present & Network

By John Hogan • October 11, 2025
Your Guide to Academic Conferences:  Plan, Present & Network
people at a conference

Conference statistics 2025

By John Hogan • October 9, 2025
Here are our conference statistics for the UK. From the economic impact of the industry to the most popular event types and locations, these stats offer valuable insights for anyone planning a conference or meeting. Learn about the growth projections for the industry, the top sectors for business events, and much more. Get the data you need to make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition. The UK conference and meetings industry is worth an estimated £20 billion annually. The average conference budget in the UK is £27,000. The most popular types of conferences in the UK are academic and scientific conferences. The UK is home to more than 10,000 conference venues.  (Event brite UK) The average number of attendees at a UK conference is 100. The average cost per attendee at a UK conference is £225. The UK conference industry employs more than 370,000 people. London is the most popular destination for conferences in the UK, with more than 70% of all UK conferences held there. 84% of UK businesses say that attending conferences is an important part of their marketing strategy. 76% of UK conference attendees make purchasing decisions based on what they see at conferences. 70% of UK conference attendees are more likely to become customers after attending a conference. 50% of UK conference attendees come to conferences to learn about new products or services. 46% of UK conference attendees come to conferences to network with other professionals. 30% of UK conference attendees come to conferences to be inspired. 20% of UK conference attendees come to conferences to be entertained. 90% of UK conference attendees say that live conferences are a valuable marketing tool. 77% of UK conference attendees say that they have a more positive opinion of a company after attending a conference. The UK conference industry is expected to grow by 5.1% annually through 2025. 57% of UK businesses plan to increase their conference budgets in the next year. 68% of UK businesses say that conferences are the most effective way to promote their brand. 89% of UK businesses believe that conferences help them to achieve their business objectives. 94% of UK businesses say that conferences are an important part of their marketing mix. 61% of UK conference attendees are women. 39% of UK conference attendees are men. The average age of a UK conference attendee is 35-44. In 2019, the UK's conference and meetings industry contributed £18.1 billion to the economy.  (Meetings Industry Association) 33% of UK conference attendees are aged 18-34. 32% of UK conference attendees are aged 35-49. 20% of UK conference attendees are aged 50-64. 15% of UK conference attendees are aged 65 or over. 61% of UK conference attendees are from the UK. 23% of UK conference attendees are from Europe. 10% of UK conference attendees are from North America. 6% of UK conference attendees are from Asia. The most popular months for conferences in the UK are June, July, and September. 78% of UK conference attendees say that they would attend a conference again. 80% of UK businesses believe that conferences help to generate leads. 57% of UK businesses believe that conferences help to increase sales. 45% of UK businesses believe that conferences help to build brand awareness. 38% of UK businesses believe that conferences help to engage with customers. 57% of UK businesses believe that conferences help to create a positive image for their brand. The UK conference industry is the fourth largest in the world, after the US, Germany, and China. In 2019, there were 1.4 million business events held in the UK.  (Meetings Industry Association) The average duration of a UK conference is 1.8 days. (Meetings Industry Association) The UK events industry employs over 700,000 people. (BVEP) In 2019, 20% of the UK's conference and meetings industry business came from international clients. (Meetings Industry Association) The UK is the second most popular European destination for international conferences, after Germany. (ICCA) In 2019, the most popular UK city for hosting conferences was London, followed by Birmingham and Manchester. (Meetings Industry Association) In 2019, the largest sector for UK business events was healthcare and pharmaceuticals, accounting for 19% of all events held. (Meetings Industry Association) According to a survey by Cvent, 72% of UK event planners cited budget as their top challenge in 2020, followed by finding the right venue (46%) and time management (45%). The average budget for a UK conference in 2019 was £49,600. References:  BVEP - UK Events Industry Facts & Figures Eventbrite UK - The UK Events Report Conference News - UK Conference and Meeting Survey Oxford Economics - The Economic Significance of the UK Meetings & Events Industry Meetings Industry Association
Audience in a dim room watches a presentation on a screen. Red chairs, windows, and dark decor.

Conference venue

By John Hogan • October 9, 2025
Organising a conference can be a daunting task, and one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right venue. The right venue can help create the right atmosphere, and provide the necessary facilities to make your event a success. Here's everything you need to know about finding the perfect conference venue for your next event.  Factors to Consider When Choosing a Conference Venue When choosing a conference venue, it's important to consider the following factors: Location: Choose a location that is easily accessible for attendees, with good transport links, nearby accommodation options and amenities. Size: Choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate the number of attendees expected. Make sure that there's enough space for activities such as exhibitions, networking areas, and breakout sessions. Facilities: Look for a venue that has the necessary facilities for your conference, including audio-visual equipment, Wi-Fi, and catering services. Budget: Establish your budget and stick to it. Look for a venue that meets your requirements without breaking the bank. Look beyond the rates and establish what added value the venue provides - often a cheaper rate won't include some of the things you might expect to be provided. Reputation: Choose a venue with a good reputation for hosting successful events. Ask for references and check online reviews, whether the venue has won any awards or has industry accreditations. Questions to Ask When Visiting Conference Venues When you visit potential conference venues, it's important to ask the following questions: Availability: Check whether the venue is available on the dates you require but be open to flexible dates. Often the venue might be able to give you a better deal at off-peak times. Capacity: Confirm whether the venue can accommodate the number of attendees expected, and if there are any restrictions on space. The venue will charge you based on the size of the space so only book the space you need to achieve your event objectives. Facilities: Check that the venue has the necessary facilities for your conference, such as audio-visual equipment, hybrid facilities for people who can't attend in person, fast and reliable Wi-Fi, and good catering options. Costs: Get a detailed breakdown of costs, including any additional charges for facilities, services, or equipment. Accessibility: Check that the venue is accessible for attendees with additional needs/requirements, including wheelchair access and hearing assistance. Tips for Negotiating a Good Deal When negotiating with a conference venue, consider the following tips: Be clear about your requirements and budget from the outset. Ask for discounts for multiple events or bookings. Negotiate on additional services such as catering or technical support. The venue will be more open to providing additional value than they will be giving you additional space without charge. FAQs Q: How far in advance should I start looking for a conference venue? A: For large conferences that covers several days It is best to start looking for a venue as soon as possible, at least 6-12 months in advance. This will give you more options and allow you to negotiate a better deal. However, for short term conferences that are a day long for example, can be organised within 48 hours. Q: How much should I budget for a conference venue? A: The cost of a conference venue can vary widely depending on the location, facilities, and size. It's important to establish a budget early on and stick to it. This will help you find a venue that meets your requirements without overspending. Be open to advice from the venue - they see conferences every day and are well-placed to help you plan your event, which could save costly mistakes down the line! Q: Should I choose a venue close to my office or in a different location? A: It depends on your conference goals and the location of your attendees. If most attendees are local, it makes sense to choose a venue close to your office. If attendees are traveling from different locations, choose a venue with good transport links and nearby accommodation options. Don't forget to ask about parking - many venues won't provide enough parking, or will charge you for it. Q: Should I book directly with the venue or use a third-party event planner? A: It depends on your preferences and experience. Booking directly with the venue can help you negotiate a better deal as they won't have to pay large commissions to a 3rd party agency. However, using a third-party event planner can help you save time in sourcing the right conference venue for your needs.