Research Fellow (Music/Imperial and Colonial History) (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for the above post based at The University of Nottingham, within the School of Humanities (Department of Music).

The role-holder will be an integral member of an interdisciplinary team delivering a UKRI-funded Future Leaders Fellowship project: ‘The Cultural Legacies of the British Empire: Classical Music’s Colonial History (1750-1900)’ at the University of Nottingham. The project brings the history of Western Classical music into dialogue with broader histories of colonialism, empire, and enslavement by unravelling how the history of Classical music is related to that of the British Empire, thereby countering assumptions of its exclusivity. Through a novel combination of research, community engagement, and practitioner collaboration, it will examine the consequences of colonialism for pedagogical and curatorial practice, developing strategies for teachers and curators on how best to address the sensitivities and ethical issues involved.

Applications are welcome from those who hold a PhD in Imperial and Colonial History or Music, or in another field if the research is closely aligned to the project’s aims or methods. The candidate must have expertise in the field of the cultural history of colonial India (especially during the late 18^th and 19^th centuries) and interdisciplinary interests. They must also have experience in engaging with and communicating with audiences beyond academia. Experience of working within the digital humanities is desirable.

Through their participation on the project the role-holder will gain significant exposure to: Classical music-making activities in colonial India; working with large amounts of research data in a collaborative setting; working closely with project partners, and planning and implementing impact activities and other events, and developing original publications. Their own career trajectory will be developed through a tailor-made career development programme, including mentorship and regular access to training opportunities.

We warmly welcome applications from under-represented groups, regardless of gender, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, age, socio-economic background, disability, religious or political beliefs, trade union membership, family circumstances, sexual orientation or other irrelevant distinction. We have an Athena Swan Bronze Award recognising good practice towards the advancement of gender equality in our school.

Shortlisting is anonymous. We cannot see any personal data or the ‘Additional Information’ section in your application until shortlisting is completed. Shortlisting is by criteria-based questions based on the person specification, rather than CV or letter.

The post is offered on full-time (36.25 hours per week), fixed term contract commencing 1 January 2025 and ending 31 December 2027. Job share opportunities may be discovered. 

The candidate will be expected to attend scheduled meetings and events in the Nottingham area and online; role-holders who do not live within commuting distance of the University will need to have access to a research library of similar standing.

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to the PI, Dr Joanne Cormac, at joanne.cormac@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Your application will be considered on an equal basis, subject to the relevant permission to work in the UK as set out by UK Visas & Immigration.

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