As early-career researchers, we were really excited to attend the MRS &more Conference last week. This conference is an online event designed to connect young professionals with the latest ideas shaping the research industry.

For us, it wasn’t just about listening to talks; it was a chance to take a step back and see where our peer group fits within the wider research landscape. We were particularly interested in hearing how emerging technologies, like AI, are changing the way research is conducted, and how younger researchers are not just adapting to these changes but actively driving them. It felt like the perfect opportunity to learn, share experiences, and reflect on where the industry is heading next.

Here, we share some of the standout themes for each of us.

Sophie: AI, the generational learning curve and stereotypes

As someone who considers themselves fairly tech-savvy, the theme of technology’s growing influence, particularly around AI, stood out to me. Many of the talks explored how these tools are reshaping research, from Ofcom’s study on children’s social media habits to i-Genie.ai’s use of AI to expand sample sizes and streamline data analysis. But what really caught my attention was the recurring discussion about how differently generations approach and understand technology. It highlights that the real challenge isn’t adopting new technology, but ensuring everyone feels confident and included in using it.

As a Gen Z researcher, I’m well aware of the stereotypes often attached to us; that we’re less resilient, less focused, or less engaged at work. Yet, research shared during the conference challenged that narrative. In fact, 40% of young researchers said they’d prefer to be in the office most or all of the time, compared with just 20% of their senior counterparts. As Christina Tarbotton (Boxclever and &more leadership team), Colin Strong (Ipsos and chair, MRS Delphi Group) and Josephine Hansom (chair, MRS ED&I Council) explained, this stems from a desire to learn through experience, to absorb knowledge “by osmosis”. Of course, that kind of learning only happens when senior researchers are also in the room and willing to share their expertise.

For the first time in history, up to five generations can be working side by side. That makes these two themes of technology and multi-generational collaboration more relevant than ever. The talks throughout the day highlighted the value of a mutual exchange of information: senior researchers bring depth, context, and experience, while younger researchers offer digital fluency, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

This isn’t something to fear; it’s something to embrace. When generations come together with open minds, knowledge doesn’t just flow downward; it circulates. It evolves. That, ultimately, is how we’ll keep the research industry learning, adapting and thriving.

Serena: The power of empathy and discomfort for growth

Coming from a multicultural background, the sessions on inclusive research really hit home. I've spent my whole life navigating different cultural contexts, and it’s made me naturally tune into voices that get overlooked.

Becca Altman from The Social Agency shared her work with the Royal National Institute of Blind People, showing me what inclusive research really looks like – not just ticking boxes, but building it into every stage. Honestly, I hadn't even considered that we as market researchers could work with scam victims, as discussed by Mustard Research and CEL Solicitors. Learning our industry can create safe spaces for people dealing with shame and fear, helping legal services reach them better – that’s the kind of work that makes me excited about this career.

Here’s the thing: my experience speaking multiple languages has taught me how easily things get lost in translation, and I'm not just talking about words. The insights we generate are only as inclusive as the processes that created them. This requires continuous learning, humility about what we don't know, and a willingness to adapt our methods when they fall short, and to recognise that the communities we research often understand their own experiences better than we ever could.

Temitope Longe of Redblue’s presentation on the three Cs – commitment, creativity and confidence – reshaped how I think about innovation. Real innovation isn't about flashy tools. It’s about clients trusting you enough to let you actually solve problems, not just execute their plan. When that trust exists, you can suggest something untested without worrying that one mistake will tank the relationship.

But here’s what really struck me: building that kind of trust requires what Rebekah Smith from Firefish called "discomfort as the price of growth". The fear of suggesting something new,  and the anxiety about being judged, takes guts from everyone. Clients must trust us even when we're uncertain. We must be brave enough to push back, to have honest conversations about what’s working and what isn't. This is also where Rebekah’s approach resonated deeply – reframing feedback as insight changes everything. We chase consumer insights daily. Why should insights about ourselves or our work feel scary?

Where we go from here

As young researchers, we're entering the profession at a pivotal moment. The tools available to us are extraordinary, but they come with responsibilities. We must use technology wisely, but resist the temptation to let digital convenience replace human insight. Challenge stereotypes about our generation, whilst also living up to our potential. Centre empathy in our work, and build relationships based on mutual trust and creativity.

Most importantly, we must recognise that none of us, regardless of age or experience, has all the answers. The future of research will be shaped by our willingness to learn from one another, to question assumptions, and to continually ask: Are we doing this in service of genuine understanding? If we keep that question at the heart of our work, the industry will thrive, and so will we.

Sophie Davey and Serena Xiao are senior research executives at Simpson Carpenter