Acknowledgements

Abstract

Many people contributed to the success of PORESO 2015, and it would be impossible to name them all here. Suffice it to say - I thank each and every one of you.

Thank you to my co-editor, Ian Lamond, without whom this publication would not have been possible. He stepped up when I had no other option than to step down, with no qualms, and I'm truly grateful.

To all the speakers who presented their research at PORESO 2015, and those who have included their work here, thank you. Some of you have since graduated, moved away from Leeds Beckett, or are on the cusp of submitting that monster of a thesis - we're so proud of you all!

Jo Scerri and the team in the University Research Office (now known as the Graduate School) - thank you so much for your advice, encouragement and support, both for PORESO 2015 and throughout my tenure as the student leader of the organisation.

My last and biggest thank you to Professor Rachael Dixey. Although you have since retired, your guidance and humour as Director of Postgraduate Research were invaluable in the reformation of PORESO. You inspired me to think this publication was possible. Both my PORESO and my personal PhD journey would not have been the same without you.