PhD Studentship – Centre Material Cultures and Materialities; CMH

PhD Studentship – Centre for Material Cultures and Materialities (CMH
068)

University of Birmingham

Birmingham, United Kingdom

The University of Birmingham is offering a PhD studentship associated with the Centre for Material Cultures and Materialities (CMCM), based within the College of Arts and Law. The Centre provides an interdisciplinary research environment focused on exploring material culture, object studies, and the ways in which humans engage with material worlds across historical and contemporary contexts.

The studentship supports advanced doctoral research investigating material cultures and materialities, with opportunities to engage with the University’s extensive collections, including historical, archaeological, artistic, and scientific objects held across campus. Researchers are encouraged to explore themes such as the social, cultural, political, and historical significance of material objects, as well as their role in shaping knowledge, identity, and society.

The Centre fosters collaboration across disciplines including history, archaeology, art history, anthropology, and related humanities fields. It also maintains active engagement with museums, curators, archivists, and external cultural institutions, offering a rich environment for research impact and interdisciplinary scholarship.

Doctoral researchers will benefit from supervision by leading academics, participation in research seminars, and access to networks that support both academic development and public engagement. The programme aims to develop original, high-quality doctoral research contributing to the field of material culture studies.

• A First-Class or Upper Second-Class Honours degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as History, Archaeology, Art History, Anthropology, Cultural Studies, or related humanities fields
• A Master’s degree in a relevant subject is desirable, particularly for competitive applications
• Evidence of strong academic research ability and preparedness for doctoral-level study
• International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements

• Strong interest in material culture, object-based research, or museum/archival studies
• Ability to develop an independent and original research project
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and written communication skills
• Familiarity with humanities research methods appropriate to the proposed topic
• Ability to engage in interdisciplinary research and collaboration
• Motivation to contribute to academic seminars and research culture

• Funding may include tuition fee coverage and a doctoral stipend (exact funding structure not specified on the page and may vary by award arrangement)