🎙️ Speaking of Research, the SCDTP Podcast Series : Episode 7

Welcome to Speaking of Research, a podcast from the South Coast Doctoral Training Partnership that puts the spotlight on the voices behind the research. This series explores how our doctoral students are tackling real-world issues and creating change through their work.

All episodes in Series One were recorded at our April 2025 conference at Cumberland Lodge, where Catherine McDonald sat down with researchers to hear more about their projects, their impact, and their vision for the future.

🌊 Episode 7 – Framing Taiwan: British Foreign Policy and the Legacy of Empire with Max Dixon

In this episode of Speaking of Research, Max Dixon, a doctoral researcher at the University of Portsmouth, discusses his work on British foreign policy toward Taiwan since its first democratic election in 1996.

Max uses a poststructuralist discourse analysis to explore how parliamentary language and the legacy of British colonialism influence how Taiwan is framed in UK politics. His research shows that Taiwan is often discussed in relation to Hong Kong, revealing how colonial legacies continue to shape diplomatic narratives.

Drawing on his lived experience in Hong Kong and his passion for international relations, Max aims to inform real-world policy through writing, conferences, and direct engagement with policymakers and diplomats.

This episode highlights how language, history, and power continue to play a central role in global politics and why these perspectives matter today.

🎧 Framing Taiwan: British Foreign Policy and the Legacy of Empire
Listen now: Speaking of Research – Max Dixon

This is a timely and thought-provoking episode for anyone interested in foreign policy, international relations, and how historical legacies continue to shape global diplomacy.

Keep an eye out for more episodes as we continue showcasing the diverse voices and research across the South Coast DTP.

🎧 New Episodes Every Tuesday Until 16 July
Speaking of Research will release a new episode every Tuesday from now until 16 July, with a total of 10 episodes in Series One. Tune in weekly to hear directly from researchers across our partner institutions.

You can listen on your favourite platform:

• Spotify: Listen here

• Apple Podcasts: Listen here

• Amazon Music: Listen here

💬 We’d love to hear from you. If you have comments, reflections, or feedback, feel free to get in touch with us at scdtp@soton.ac.uk.