Angelika Berg, a PhD student investigating gender-based harassment on public transport, has been named Coventry University’s Postgraduate Researcher (PGR) of the Year 2025.

Angelika was one of eight doctoral candidates selected from across the university to take part in the annual PGR of the Year competition, which involved delivering a 10-minute research presentation and receiving evaluations on the impact of their work from a panel of judges.

Based jointly in the university’s Research Centres for Future Transport and Cities and Healthcare and Communities, Angelika explores how harassment on public transport has become normalised – and how this can be challenged through inclusive campaigns and education.

As part of her PhD, Angelika set up the MoveEqual project, which brings together two groups: an advisory group made up of police officers, transport staff and campaigners, and a lived experience group including women and gender-diverse people who use public transport. The aim is to ensure the research reflects real experiences and involves those affected by harassment in shaping the solutions. In the long-term, Angelika hopes her work will influence local and national policy, helping to ensure that public awareness campaigns and safety measures are inclusive, accessible and effective.

Dr Arun Ulahannan, Director of Studies, Research Centre for Future Transport and Cities, said:

“Angelika’s achievements have been nothing short of incredible. Sexual harassment on public transport has become shockingly normalised and sadly accepted as just the way things are. In the short time since starting at Coventry, Angelika has made significant strides to change this, bringing together a lived experience and stakeholder group to guide her PhD and engaging with external partners to deliver impact. We are very proud of her work and are delighted that her efforts have been recognised with PGR of the Year.”

(Pic: Coventry University)