In collaboration with the Bluecoat, Liverpool John Moores University is looking for a full-time, funded PhD researcher to work on a Collaborative Doctoral Award project exploring the global and imperial history of our building's original occupiers, the Blue Coat Charity School in the nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries.
The project will explore the global and imperial history of Liverpool’s Blue Coat Charity School in the nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries. It will focus on the extent to which the growing globalisation of the port of Liverpool, and associated colonial connections and structures, were reflected in the people involved in the charity school – its trustees, supporters, pupils and staff - and the School’s wider activities. The period covered is from the formal end of the slave trade and slave ownership in the early-nineteenth century to the purchase of the Bluecoat’s city-centre buildings – significantly by Merseyside philanthropist and imperialist William Lever (later Lord Leverhulme) – in the Edwardian era. As well as the completion of a PhD thesis, the project will involve the co-production of a contemporary arts programme, reflecting upon the Bluecoat’s imperial connections and legacies.
The successful candidate will have an interest in nineteenth century history, and the history of Britain and empire. They will have strong critical thinking skills, be able to work independently and as part of a team. The candidate should be comfortable working across disciplines, and with external stakeholders. Experience in archival research is desirable.
We are seeking PhD applicants with a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree, and with an MA or MRes in a relevant subject area. You should have a commitment and strong interest in interdisciplinary research, be motivated and be prepared to work independently. Full training will be given to the successful candidate.
Funding Notes
Full time funded PhD Project. The studentship includes a tax-free stipend of £20,780 p.a. and the tuition fees for three years. The student will complete programme approval 3 months from the date of enrolment and will be expected to confirm the PhD registration within 12 months (subject to satisfactory progress and approval of the confirmation of registration report).
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We particularly encourage applications from individuals from under-represented groups.
Timescale
- Closing date for applications: 29th August 2025
- Interviews: w/c 22 September 2025
- PhD start date: between October 2025 and Feb 2026 (earlier start date preferred)