PhD Studentship: AHRC Collections & Communities in the East of England Collaborative Doctoral Partnership (CC-EE CDP)
University of Cambridge
Cambridge, United Kingdom
General Description
The University of Cambridge Faculty of English and the Department of History and Philosophy of Science, in collaboration with Cambridge University Library and the University Museum of Zoology, invite applications for a fully funded PhD studentship under the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) Collaborative Doctoral Partnership Scheme. The studentship will commence on 1 October 2026.
This doctoral project, titled “Recording nature and writing the self: time, entomology and the archive in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries,” explores the historical and cultural significance of entomology collections and related archives in East Anglia. The region holds exceptional entomological collections and documentary archives that provide valuable insights into biodiversity change and the evolving relationship between humans and insects.
The research will examine how insect specimens are connected with the documentary records produced by collectors, including notebooks, specimen labels, publications, annotated books, diaries, and correspondence. These materials together form an extensive “insect archive” revealing changing scientific, cultural, and personal perspectives on the natural world.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape their research focus within this broad theme, selecting specific time periods, insect taxa, documentary forms, and research questions. The project will draw on significant collections and archives held by Cambridge institutions and will contribute to a deeper understanding of biodiversity history, scientific practices, and the cultural narratives associated with natural history collections.
The studentship is part of the nationwide AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Partnership programme, which fosters collaboration between universities and cultural heritage institutions. The student will benefit from joint supervision by academic specialists and heritage professionals, gaining hands-on experience with museum and archival collections while conducting original doctoral research.
The funded period is four years for full-time study or up to seven years for part-time study (0.6 FTE). This period includes research activities, professional development opportunities, and work placements or internships designed to enhance practical experience and career development.
Eligibility Criteria
Open to both home and international applicants.
Applicants should ideally hold, or expect to receive, a relevant Master’s degree or demonstrate equivalent professional experience.
Applicants must meet UKRI terms and conditions for doctoral funding and eligibility requirements.
Candidates should demonstrate strong academic potential and the ability to undertake independent research.
Required Expertise/Skills
Academic background in relevant disciplines such as history, history of science, English, environmental humanities, museum studies, archives, heritage studies, or related fields.
Interest in natural history collections, archives, or environmental history.
Ability to conduct interdisciplinary humanities research using archival and collection-based materials.
Strong analytical, writing, and communication skills.
Motivation to develop research skills and engage with museum and archival collections.
Salary Details
Tuition fees covered up to the UKRI home rate for PhD degrees (indicative fee level for 2026/2027: £5,238).
Annual maintenance stipend at the UKRI National Minimum Doctoral Stipend rate (£21,805 for 2026/2027).
Additional opportunities for funded placements, training, and professional development through the Collaborative Doctoral Partnership programme.
Application Deadline
3 May 2026