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- Tasks: Join a collaborative team to edit and enhance the works of Elias Canetti.
- Company: Swansea University is a vibrant, research-led institution with a stunning waterfront campus.
- Benefits: Enjoy a great work-life balance, teaching opportunities, and a multicultural environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting project that combines creativity and scholarship while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Ideal for entry-level candidates; no specific experience required, just a passion for research.
- Other info: Applications accepted in Welsh or English; flexibility for archive access.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
About The University
Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. The University community thrives on exploration and discovery and offers the right balance of excellent teaching and research, matched by an enviable quality of life. Our stunning waterfront campuses and multicultural community make us a desirable workplace for colleagues from around the world. Our reward and benefits, and ways of working enable those who join us to have enriching careers, matched by an excellent work-life balance.
About The Role
The Kritische Gesamtausgabe der Werke von Elias Canetti (The critical edition of the collected works of Elias Canetti) is edited by Kristian Wachinger and Sven Hanuschek and published by Hanser. It draws on the rich materials in Canetti's Nachlass which are now available to researchers online through the Elias Canetti Foundation portal. The main role of the postholder will be to work with Swansea's general editors and volume editors. They will gain experience in text comparison, collation and editing of paralipomena, compiling bibliographies, text preparation for publication, cross-referencing, indexing, and searching for references to the relevant work in the Nachlass. They will develop team-working skills in a collaborative research project. The philosophy of the editors is that volumes are primarily for readers (scholars can access online materials or visit the Zurich library). Given the extensive unpublished resources, there is both an intellectual creative element and a strictly philological aspect: the goal is not completeness but to produce an edition that enhances reader appreciation of the work.
Additionally, the postholder will be involved in the AHRC-DFG funded project 'Elias Canetti and the British in a European Context: Exile, Reception, Appropriation (2024-27)', led by Sven Hanuschek in Munich and Julian Preece in Swansea, which includes a shared postdoc resident in Swansea from 1 October 2025. This project offers opportunities in outreach, conference organization, and presentation, including a conference in September 2026 where the postholder can showcase their work. The MHRA research fellow will also have opportunities to teach in the German section, remunerated separately.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University promotes equality and diversity, welcoming applications from all protected characteristics. Applications are accepted in Welsh or English and will be treated equally. Welsh speakers may be interviewed in Welsh. Welsh language skills are Level 1 - basic, including pronunciation, answering calls, and using simple phrases. The university encourages engagement with Welsh culture and language as part of its bilingual strategy.
Additional Information
Applications should include a CV and cover letter. The role is funded by the MHRA, and the successful candidate will be titled MHRA Research Fellow. The position requires mostly working at Swansea University, with some flexibility for access to archives or holding multiple posts. Remote work is generally not funded.
MHRA Research Fellow employer: Swansea University
Contact Detail:
Swansea University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land MHRA Research Fellow
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the works of Elias Canetti and the specific projects related to his research. Understanding the nuances of his writings will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former researchers at Swansea University, especially those involved in similar projects. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with text comparison and editing in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of your past work that align with the responsibilities of the MHRA Research Fellow position.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your enthusiasm for collaborative research projects. Highlight any previous teamwork experiences and how they have prepared you for contributing effectively to the AHRC-DFG funded project.
We think you need these skills to ace MHRA Research Fellow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and expectations of the MHRA Research Fellow position. Highlight key skills and experiences that align with the role in your application.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses how your background and skills make you a suitable candidate for this position. Mention your interest in the project and any relevant experience in text comparison, editing, or research.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any previous research, teaching, or editorial experience that relates to the role. Include specific examples of projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to contribute to the team.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for academic roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swansea University
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of the MHRA Research Fellow. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks like text comparison, collation, and editing, as well as the projects you'll be involved in.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences, particularly any that relate to philology or editing. Be ready to explain how your skills can contribute to the critical edition of Elias Canetti's works and the associated projects.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Abilities
Since this role involves collaboration with various editors and researchers, think of examples from your past where you've successfully worked in a team. Highlight your communication skills and how you can contribute to a collaborative environment.
✨Engage with Welsh Culture
As the university encourages engagement with Welsh culture and language, it might be beneficial to show your interest in this area. If you have any knowledge of Welsh or are willing to learn, mention it during the interview to demonstrate your commitment to the university's values.
