P05 SIG New Researchers

Panel Member(s) & Contact Details

Corresponding chair: Barbara Zyzak, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU): barbara.k.zyzak@ntnu.no

Co-Chair: Jessica Sowa, Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Public Policy and Administration

Description

New Researchers Panel (NRP) provides an excellent platform for early-career researchers in public administration and public management, specifically PhD students and researchers in the first three years of their academic careers, to discuss their research and work in progress.  Participants benefit from targeted feedback and dialogue with distinguished international scholars, with a focus on refining their work toward publication.

A highlight of the NRP is the IRSPM Stephen Osborne Prize, awarded to the paper deemed closest to publication standard. Written papers are nominated by panel chairs or discussants and assessed by a committee led by the New Researchers Panel chair. This prestigious prize honors the legacy of Professor Stephen Osborne, founder of IRSPM and the Public Management Review (PMR), and a tireless mentor to countless new researchers.   

Beyond paper presentations, the NRP provides enriching activities tailored to new researchers. These include subject-specific publishing guidance, dedicated sessions with editors from leading public administration and management journals, career development advice, and opportunities to build professional connections across the IRSPM network.

This panel welcomes both theoretical and empirical research papers (not PhD progress reports) in any area of public administration and public management. However, priority will be given to submissions that align closely with the 2026 IRSPM Conference theme:  

Beyond Boundaries: Wellbeing, Innovation and the Future of Public Management

Each accepted participant will receive individual feedback from an experienced scholar in the field. Selection is based on the evaluation of proposals, which must include a brief paper outline (up to 500 words) addressing: 

• Purpose of the paper
• Intended contribution to literature
• Methodological approach
• Main findings

Any queries about submissions should be directed to the Panel Chair Barbara Zyzak barbara.k.zyzak@ntnu.no

Relevance

The New Researchers Panel (NRP) is highly relevant to the IRSPM 2026 conference, as it supports the development of early-career scholars actively engaging with the conference theme and contributing to the evolving discourse in public administration and management. As a long-standing and integral part of IRSPM, the panel provides a central platform for young researchers to share innovative work, connect with peers and senior academics, and play a vital role in shaping the future of the field.