The AsSIST-UK Early Career Researcher (ECR) Group organised a week-long writing retreat in Melrose in the Scottish Borders in April 2023. 12 early career academics and scholars stayed at Harmony House, a beautiful venue owned by the National Trust of Scotland.

The retreat combined solo writing sessions, facilitated sessions designed for ECRs, and collaborative activities. Solo sessions gave participants time to work or write on projects of their choosing. STS sessions provided opportunities to learn about and discuss topics, methods or skills with a senior member and covered current European STS research group activities, collaboration skills, publishing and public engagement tools. Collaborative activities included practical and recreational activities like large-scale cooking or guided nature walks, giving participants time to network, identify collaborative possibilities, talk about their work in a new context, and relax.

The event was funded jointly by the University of Edinburgh and EASST.