About the Esports Research Network
Connecting researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts to advance esports research globally.
Our Goals
Our mission is to advance esports research through collaboration, education, and connection.
Connect Researchers Worldwide
Building bridges across institutions, disciplines, and continents.
Rigor + Relevance
Advancing esports research with academic rigor and real-world impact.
Teach the Next Generation
Supporting emerging scholars and fostering educational initiatives.
Promote Diversity & Inclusion
Creating an inclusive space for diverse perspectives and voices.
Link to Practitioners
Bridging the gap between research and industry application.
Help Newcomers
Guiding new researchers into the field of esports research.
Tackle key challenges for esports and the digital society
Addressing critical issues facing esports and digital communities.
Drive innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration
Fostering cross-disciplinary partnerships to advance esports research.
Members
As of: January 1, 2026
Mission Statement
The Esports Research Network (ERN) is committed to advancing esports research through global collaboration, rigorous scholarship, and meaningful connections between academia and industry.
We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and supportive community that empowers researchers at all stages of their careers, from emerging scholars to established experts. Our mission is to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that academic insights translate into real-world impact.
Through our conferences, publications, and community initiatives, we aim to tackle the key challenges facing esports and the digital society, driving innovation through interdisciplinary collaboration and fostering the next generation of esports researchers.
Board Members
Governance & Volunteers
Our History
The Esports Research Network (ERN) was founded to address the growing need for a centralized platform connecting researchers, practitioners, and industry professionals in the rapidly evolving field of esports research.
Since our inception, we have grown into a global community of scholars dedicated to advancing esports research through collaboration, education, and innovation. Our annual conferences have brought together hundreds of researchers from around the world, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and driving the field forward.
Today, ERN continues to serve as a vital hub for esports research, providing resources, networking opportunities, and a platform for sharing cutting-edge research that shapes the future of esports and digital society.
Former Board Members
Usva Friman, Martin Maties, Craig McNulty, Stephanie Orme, Maria Ruotsalainen, Maria Törhönen