Not all conferences are created equal—I learned this firsthand at the Young Athlete Hip Research Conference 2024 in Oxford. Unlike the larger, more generic academic events, this one was small, specific, and refreshingly collaborative. The organiser brought together researchers and clinicians from across the globe to foster partnerships rather than competition. It was a space where early career researchers, like me, were supported by more experienced professionals, making it a truly inspiring experience.
As a clinical physiotherapist with a specialist interest in hip pain, this conference was perfectly aligned with both my research on Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) Syndrome and my day-to-day clinical work. Presentations ranged from keynotes to “rapid 5s” (five key points of a study), unpublished research summaries, and even practical breakout sessions. It was fascinating to see such a mix of approaches, all focused on advancing understanding and care in this specific area.
I’ll admit, I was relieved not to be presenting myself—public speaking isn’t my forte—but this turned out to be an unexpected blessing. For the first time, I was immersed in presentations directly tied to my niche topic, and I came away with something invaluable: a fresh perspective on presenting research.
What stood out was the simplicity of the talks given by the more experienced researchers and clinicians. Their presentations weren’t overloaded with jargon or slides packed with information. Instead, they focused on delivering clear, concise messages, making complex ideas accessible to everyone in the room. It made me realise that effective presentation isn’t about how much you say but how well you say it.
The conference also highlighted the value of collaboration in research. Hearing from orthopaedic consultants and physiotherapists who had ventured into research showed me the power of bridging the gap between clinical practice and academic study. Their ability to apply research findings to real-world settings reinforced the importance of connecting these two worlds—something I strive to do in my own work.
Attending this conference wasn’t just an academic exercise for me; it was also a reminder of why I embarked on this PhD journey. It gave me the confidence to believe that my work can contribute to improving patient outcomes and that, with time and practice, I too can stand at the podium and share my findings.
The university’s support in helping me attend this event made all the difference. It not only enriched my understanding of FAI Syndrome but also gave me a new appreciation for the role of collaboration, simplicity, and mentorship in the research community.
For anyone navigating a PhD or early career research, I’d highly recommend seeking out smaller, topic-focused conferences like this one. They’re not just an opportunity to learn but also a chance to connect with others who share your passion—and perhaps even help you find your voice in the process.
