AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Partnership PhD in History (National Archives Project with Tomas Irish) – RS948
Swansea University
Swansea, United Kingdom (with research collaboration involving The National Archives, United Kingdom)
Swansea University, in partnership with the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) and The National Archives, is offering a fully funded Collaborative Doctoral Partnership (CDP) PhD studentship in History for 2026 entry. This doctoral project (RS948) is supervised at Swansea University in collaboration with external academic and archival expertise, including The National Archives and academic supervision from Dr Tomas Irish.
The project forms part of the AHRC CDP scheme, which is designed to support doctoral research embedded within national cultural and archival institutions. The studentship enables the successful candidate to undertake original historical research using primary archival sources held at The National Archives, alongside academic training and supervision at Swansea University.
The research focuses on advanced historical inquiry drawing on archival materials, with an emphasis on producing original scholarship that contributes to academic knowledge and public understanding of history. The project is situated within a structured doctoral training environment, offering opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement, methodological development, and collaboration with professional archivists and historians.
The successful applicant will benefit from joint supervision, access to extensive archival collections, and training opportunities across both academic and heritage research environments. The programme supports the development of advanced historical research skills and prepares candidates for careers in academia, heritage, archives, or related research sectors.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet Swansea University’s requirements for doctoral study. This typically includes a first-class or upper second-class undergraduate degree (or international equivalent) in History or a closely related discipline, and normally a relevant master’s degree with strong academic performance. Applicants should demonstrate readiness for independent research at doctoral level. UKRI AHRC eligibility rules apply, and candidates must meet residency requirements for full funding consideration under the CDP scheme.
Required expertise/skills
Applicants should have a strong academic background in History or a related humanities discipline. A clear interest in archival research, particularly using primary historical sources, is essential. Strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills are required, along with the ability to engage with complex historical evidence and historiography.
Experience in archival research, or familiarity with working in archive-based environments, is advantageous. Strong written communication skills and the ability to produce high-quality academic writing are essential. The ability to work independently while engaging collaboratively with supervisors and partner institutions is also required.
Salary details
Fully funded AHRC CDP studentship covering tuition fees and providing a UKRI-equivalent maintenance stipend (rate subject to annual UKRI adjustment), along with additional research training and archival placement support in line with CDP funding arrangements.
Application Deadline
Not explicitly stated on the source page (refer to official project listing for confirmation).