Call for Application - Masterclass: "Challenges of Fieldwork: Data Collection in Sensitive Situations" - 13-19 September 2021

The programme Hidden Narratives on Transnational Organised Crime in West Africa is proposing a Masterclass on the theme: “Challenges of Fieldwork: Data Collection in Sensitive Situations”. The masterclass will take place at the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan from September 13th to 19th 2021.

What is sensitive fieldwork? 

“Sensitive topics” or “sensitive locations” imply a situation in which the researcher has to be especially cautious and prepared. This may be due to a risk posed by the research itself, or to themselves and the studied populations, and/or because of existing social/cultural taboos about the research topic.

Sensitive fieldwork may include research with participants who face particular vulnerabilities and should be approached with particular care and consideration. This can vary from engaging with participants who have a mental health condition, to those with a precarious legal status, or those engaged in criminal activity. 

Serious ethical challenges are also often part of this type of research.

Objectives of the Masterclass 

Following the fieldwork conducted in Niger and Nigeria for the Hidden Narratives on Transnational Organised Crime in West Africa project, this masterclass aims to: 

• generate discussion among scholars having conducted sensitive fieldwork.
• train early-career scholars in fieldwork methodologies adapted to sensitive situations.
• enhance interdisciplinary exchanges about data production in sensitive situations.

Location

The masterclass sessions will take place on-site at IFRA-Nigeria (Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan).

NB. Considering the participative nature of the masterclass, unfortunately there will not be any possibility of attending online. However, the outcome of the masterclass will be shared on our website. 

Application

8 participants will be selected to take part in the masterclass.

Participants will be expected to read all the preliminary material and to present their research during the masterclass. They will also be expected to attend the full week programme (from September 13th to 19th) and to be proactive during the discussions.

Targeted participants are early-career scholars whose research involves sensitive situations and who are willing to reflect on the methodology they use to gather and use their data. 

Therefore, applications are open to researchers (postgraduate students, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral researchers) from any nationality based in a Nigerian university.

Interested early career scholars are requested to submit their applications to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with “Application TNOC Masterclass” as email subject, no later than 10th August, 2021.

Applications must include the following attachments or will not be considered:

• a CV specifying their affiliation, position and research. 
• a cover letter (300-500 words) describing their current research project and explaining the reasons why they are interested in contributing to a masterclass on “Challenges of Fieldwork: Data Collection in Sensitive Situations”

Expenses and Fundings 

During the masterclass, cost of lecture materials (soft copies), internet connectivity, tea breaks and lunch for participants will be covered by IFRA-Nigeria. Transportation and accomodation can be provided for applicants living outside of Ibadan.  

Deadline: Applications must be submitted to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no later than 10th August, 2021.