Call for Contributions: Beyond the Hype - Synthetic Data in Research and Analytics

MRS Advanced Data Analytics (ADA) Network, in collaboration with the RSS Social Statistics Group, is inviting contributions for a face-to-face event exploring the real-world use of synthetic data in research and analytics.

Synthetic data is often described as revolutionary, but in practice its application is not new, and it is rarely straightforward. This event aims to move beyond theory and hype to focus on what people have actually done, what they have learned, and where the limits lie.

We are particularly interested in practical case studies that reflect honestly on:

• How synthetic data has been used in live projects.
• What worked well, and what did not.
• The trade-offs made along the way.

What we are looking for

We welcome contributions covering real examples of synthetic data use across areas such as:

• Model construction and testing.
• Large-scale modelling and simulation.
• Replacing, supplementing or stress testing primary data.

We are keen to hear reflections on:

• How outputs were assessed and quality controlled.
• How organisations judged whether results were “good enough” to support decisions.
• What constraints or limitations were encountered.
• How synthetic data compared to traditional or hybrid approaches.
• Whether its use felt more like an evolution or a genuine step change.

Trust, risk and ethics:

We are especially interested in perspectives that explore:

• Data quality and validation challenges.
• Ethical considerations and transparency.
• Reputational risk, both perceived and realised.
• Situations where the use of synthetic data caused concern, friction or the potential for  scrutiny.
• Lessons learned from projects that did not go to plan.

Voices we want to hear:

We strongly encourage submissions from:

• Practitioners and methodologists.
• Clients and commissioners of research.
• Individuals who are sceptical of synthetic data as well as those actively advocating for it.

We are looking for 2-3 case studies and panel participation. We are keen to include a balanced mix of voices, including contributors who can challenge assumptions and share cautionary experiences.

Event details

• Date: Thursday 24 September
• Time: 3.00–5.00pm
• Location: MRS, London
• Format: Short case study presentations followed by moderated discussion and panel debate

How to submit

We are inviting expressions of interest for case study presentations and panel participation.

Please indicate clearly which type of contribution you are submitting for. You are welcome to put yourself forward for both.

1. Case study presentation submissions

Case study speakers will be invited to share short, practical examples during the event, helping to ground the discussion in real experience.

Case study submissions should include a short outline covering:

• The context and purpose of the work.
• How and why synthetic data was used.
• The type of application involved (e.g. modelling, personas, digital twins, large?scale modelling).
• What went well and what did not.
• How outputs were assessed or quality controlled.
• Key lessons learned, including limitations or constraints encountered.

We are particularly keen to include:

• Honest reflections, including challenges, trade-offs or unintended consequences.
• Examples where synthetic data complemented, replaced or challenged traditional approaches.

2. Panel participation expressions of interest

We are also inviting expressions of interest from individuals who would like to take part in the panel discussion.

Panel participants may include:

• Practitioners and methodologists.
• Clients and commissioners of research.
• Those supportive of synthetic data approaches.
• Those sceptical or cautious about its use.

Panel participation submissions should include a short statement outlining:

• Your perspective on the use of synthetic data.
• Any relevant experience (positive or negative).
• The issues you feel most strongly about, such as data quality, ethics, reputational risk or decision making confidence.

We are aiming for a balanced panel, including differing viewpoints, to support open and constructive debate.

Submission deadline: 1 June via our online form. Let us know if you’d like to be considered for a case study presentation and/or panel session