Writing and Place at Manchester Metropolitan University

Place-based research in literary studies engages with the thematic focus of using literature as a medium for exploring and re-imagining human relationships with place and the environment.  but it can also involve the use of creative writing as a methodology for co-creating research, across disciplines and with communities, to address societal challenges from social cohesion to the climate crisis. With our strengths and experience in both kinds of place-based literary research, we have unique opportunities  to capitalise on an intensifying emphasis on place-based interventions in the UK policy environment and in the funding landscape for Arts and Humanities research.

The English Department is home to over 60 researchers in literature, film and media. Our Writing School is one of the largest in the UK. English Language and Literature  was ranked 8^th of 92 subject groups in REF2021 for Research Power and was placed in the top 250 in the last two iterations of the QS World Rankings. Our Centre for Place Writing represents sector-leading creative and critical research into the relationship between writing, place and the environment and projects include Mother Tongue Other Tongue, Untold Stories of the NHS & Voices of the Future etc. The Manchester Poetry Library, provides a research resource and a crucible for interdisciplinary collaboration and community co-creation. The Manchester UNESCO City of Literature partnership, connects us to a network of regional and global partners united to address societal challenges from literacy to sustainability.

About the role: 

• To undertake world-leading and internationally excellent research using latest and innovative methodologies, as relevant in your area of research. 

• To prepare, present and publish research outputs through the appropriate forums.

• To develop ideas for generating income to ensure the continued success and growth of research portfolio.  

• To disseminate findings of research widely to further the institution’s standing in the HE and research community and strengthen the impact of the research.

About the candidate: 

Your desire to use literature and creative writing to make a difference to the lives of people beyond the academy is vital to this post.

Requirements: 

• Doctoral level qualification in a related research area. 

• Possess breadth or depth of specialist knowledge and demonstrate potential for research independence.

• Excellent track record of relevant research outputs. 

• Significant research experience in the chosen field of research, which should include where appropriate: 
  • leading the work of a team, co-ordinating effort and resources to meet objectives 
  • developing partnerships with internal and external agencies 
  • preparing funding proposals and applications to external bodies 
  • using initiative, creativity and judgement to develop appropriate approaches to research 
  • synthesising complex data from different sources and communicating findings via written reports and articles 
  • presenting at national and/or international research meetings 
  • supervising student work and providing appropriate support and feedback. 

• Experience of managing and monitoring performance of research projects in multi-disciplinary teams.

• Ability to manage projects involving academic institutions and funding bodies. 

Please refer to the Job Description & Person Specification for a full list of essential & desirable criteria. 

Academic Contact: Prof Helen Mort (h.mort@mmu.ac.uk) to discuss the fellowship opportunity in detail. 

Closing Date: 29 May 2024 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on researchfellowships@mmu.ac.uk  

To apply to the fellowship, click here  

To return to the main fellowship page, click here