Expressions of Interest: Historian(s) for history of UK Government policy towards Northern Ireland during the Troubles

The Northern Ireland Office seeks expressions of interest from suitably qualified historians to contribute to a landmark official history of UK Government policy towards Northern Ireland during ‘the Troubles’. The appointed historians will have full access to UK state archives and any other relevant government documents, with the aim of providing an independent and authoritative examination of the UK Government’s policy towards Northern Ireland during the conflict. This definitive account will serve as a critical resource for academics, policymakers, and the public, providing an enhanced understanding of this pivotal period in British and Irish history.

Project Details

• Duration: Up to five (5) years
• Start Date: By negotiation, depending on individual circumstances
• Project Team: Collaborative environment with up to four other historians, supported by an expert advisory panel and with administrative support provided by the Northern Ireland Office.
• Outputs: To be agreed in consultation with the project team, but will include a range of scholarly and public-facing outputs.
• Salary: Commensurate with experience or by arrangement with home institution.

Responsibilities

• Develop a comprehensive research plan that critically examines the full spectrum of British policy decisions and actions during the conflict.
• Conduct in-depth research utilizing a wide range of sources, with particular emphasis on government archives.
• Develop a clear, balanced, and engaging narrative that reflects the complexities of the period and offers fresh perspectives.
• Collaborate effectively with fellow historians and the advisory panel to ensure comprehensive, cohesive, and rigorous outputs to the highest academic standards.
• Engage with public stakeholders and disseminate findings in a variety of formats.

Essential Criteria

• Ph.D. in History or cognate discipline, with a specialization in contemporary and/or modern British/Irish history or a closely related field.
• A comprehensive understanding of the Northern Ireland conflict in its full complexity - including political, economic, social and military aspects.
• Proven experience in historical research and publication in reputable academic journals or presses.
• Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and engaging scholarly prose.
• Excellent public engagement skills, with a strong record of engaging diverse audiences.
• Strong record of collaboration in research projects, or the ability to develop this.

How to apply

We invite applications from qualified historians with a demonstrably successful record in modern British and/or Irish history, with an ability to address the Northern Ireland conflict. Your Expression of Interest package should include the following:

• Curriculum Vitae: A comprehensive CV outlining your academic credentials and relevant research experience.

• Statement of Suitability (maximum 1000 words): A suitability statement which addresses how your skills, experience, and personal qualities align with the role, including the essential requirements outlined above.

• Writing Sample: A published article or book chapter showcasing your research and writing abilities in a peer-reviewed publication.

Selection Process

Expressions of interest are welcomed from all sections of the community. We encourage all qualified researchers, at all career stages, to consider applying.

An Information Session, open to all potential applicants, will be held in early May 2025. More details will be provided in due course. If you wish to register your interest in attending, please email advisorypanel@niofficialhistory.org.uk by 25 April 2025.

Your expressions of interest, including a CV, writing sample, and detailed project pitch, and equality monitoring forms should be submitted electronically by Friday 23rd May 2025 to advisorypanel@niofficialhistory.org.uk.

All expressions of interest received by the closing date will be assessed by the panel at the shortlisting stage against the essential criteria set out above. It is expected that shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview by the panel in mid-June 2025.

As part of the interview process, candidates will be asked to deliver a project pitch outlining how they will leverage the unique access to government sources to advance existing scholarship, and tailor the history to engage both academic and public audiences.

Equality and Diversity Monitoring Information is not used in the selection process. It will be removed on receipt and is not seen by the panel assessing your application.  This information is only used to monitor the diversity of candidates we attract and those we appoint.

Following the interview stage, the panel will then make its recommendations to the Secretary of State who will decide based on merit who should be put forward to the Prime Minister for appointment to the roles.

Candidates who are deemed appointable will be kept on a reserve list for up to 12 months.

As successful candidates will have access to sensitive government assets, they must be willing to undergo Developed Vetting (DV) clearance or a suitably equivalent process. See our vetting charter (opens in a new window).

Further information on national security vetting checks can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels

They must also be willing to comply with the seven principles in public life, ethical and legal obligations as required by statutory and regulatory authorities, and to seek ethical review for research where appropriate, in collaboration with the expert advisory panel, members of relevant professional bodies and other stakeholders.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to advisorypanel@niofficialhistory.org.uk, and a member of the expert advisory panel will be happy to have a confidential discussion.