Research Associate (Mary Shelley) in Manchester

Manchester Metropolitan University's School of English is seeking to appoint an outstanding Research Associate to support the project: The Oxford Complete Works of Mary Shelley, edited by Professor Sharon Ruston and Professor Daniel Cook and scheduled for publication by Oxford University Press between 2028 and 2035. This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career researcher with expertise in Mary Shelley studies and the literature and culture of the eighteenth and/or nineteenth centuries to contribute to one of the most significant editorial projects in Romantic and Gothic studies.

About the School

The School of English is a vibrant, inclusive, and research-active community recognised for its impact on culture, creativity, and communication. Situated in the heart of Manchester—a UNESCO City of Literature—the School is home to world-leading research, award-winning writers, and internationally recognised scholars. The successful candidate will join the School's thriving research environment, including the Gothic Research Group, and benefit from access to exceptional facilities and cultural partnerships across the city.

About the Role

Working closely with Professor Sharon Ruston, you will undertake and support research activities for The Oxford Complete Works of Mary Shelley and contribute to the associated Oxford Handbook of Mary Shelley. Key responsibilities include:

• Tracing citations, references, and source materials across Mary Shelley's works.
• Identifying and liaising with archives, libraries, and collections in the UK and internationally.
• Assisting with the collation of editions and verification of editorial annotations and introductions.
• Compiling reliable bibliographies and secondary reading lists.
• Writing a comprehensive chronology of Mary Shelley's life and works for the digital edition.
• Producing public-facing research outputs, including blog posts and newsletters.
• Creating and maintaining the project's WordPress website and social media presence.
• Organising project meetings and supporting communication between editors, advisory board members, and Oxford University Press.

The role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a landmark publication while developing expertise in scholarly editing, digital communication, and academic project management.

About You

We are looking for a motivated and organised researcher who can work independently while contributing effectively to a collaborative research team. You should be able to demonstrate:

• Research experience in Mary Shelley studies, including evidence of independent scholarly contribution.
• Strong knowledge of Mary Shelley's writings and current scholarship in the field.
• Ability to synthesise complex information from diverse sources and communicate findings effectively to different audiences.
• Creativity, initiative, and sound judgement in developing research approaches and solving problems.
• Proficiency with digital tools including WordPress, social media platforms, and design software such as Canva.
• A completed doctorate, or current doctoral study nearing completion, in a relevant subject area.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience assisting with the preparation of scholarly or critical editions.
• Experience developing academic networks and partnerships.
• Experience contributing to research funding applications and proposals.
• Reading knowledge of additional languages, particularly French, German, or Italian.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals. We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support. Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups. Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria.