In this episode of the Doctoral Dialogue podcast, we’re joined by two PhD researchers from the University of Westminster: Renan Porto from Westminster Law School and Piero Latino, a dual PhD student studying at Westminster and the Sorbonne.
Renan shares his research on the ecology of cocoa crops in North-East Brazil, reflecting on how his personal background has shaped his academic focus. He also discusses the importance of adapting his approach, including guidance from his supervisor to take a more empirical direction in his work.
Piero explores the relationship between literature and esotericism, with a particular focus on the writings of Gabriele Rossetti. He reflects on his experience of undertaking a dual PhD across institutions and navigating different academic and cultural environments.
Together, they discuss the challenges of conducting research during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the broader personal and academic impacts of their doctoral journeys. Both emphasise the importance of supervisory support and the value of their research in shaping their future paths.