Studying Global China Workshop
@ Humboldt University Berlin
Studying global China presents unique challenges. For researchers trained in Sinology, engaging with China’s global entanglements calls for new methodological approaches. For those from other social science backgrounds, language barriers and limited historical or cultural knowledge can complicate research on China’s global influence. At the same time, scholars face increasing restrictions within the PRC and contentious debates in Western countries about the risks and benefits of academic cooperation.
The “Studying Global China” workshop offers a platform to explore these challenges, reflect on research approaches, and exchange fieldwork experiences. Connect with fellow scholars over coffee and snacks, listen to inspiring lectures on current issues, and learn with and from each other: Who is working on what? What are your fieldwork experiences? Join us for two days of debate and networking at Humboldt University Berlin!
This year’s workshop features Ching Kwan Lee as keynote speaker. Professor Lee teaches Sociology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and is widely known for her book The Specter of Global China: Politics, Labor and Foreign Investment in Africa (2017). She currently edits the Cambridge Elements in Global China series and co-convenes the Global Hong Kong Studies @UC initiative.
In addition, on Monday, February 16th, there will be lectures by Claus Soong (MERICS), Daniel Sprick (Universität Köln) and John Njenga Karugia (Humboldt University Berlin). On February 17th, based on participants' interests, there will be space for informal sessions on specific topics as well as a feedback session with C. K. Lee.
Participation is open to PhD students, postdocs, and other interested Berlin-based scholars. M.A./M.Sc. students may also join, depending on available capacity.
Would you like to receive feedback on your research project in a small group setting with C. K. Lee?
We invite PhD students to submit a one-page summary of their research project (350–500 words). Your submission should outline your research question, methodology, current stage of research, and the status of your data collection. The workshop is open to all PhD students, with a preference for those in the early stages of planning, about to begin fieldwork, or who have recently conducted fieldwork. If you would like to participate in this session, please register using the form below in addition to submitting your one-pager. Please send your one-pager via email to merle.groneweg@hu-berlin.de until February 11th, 2026.
