At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct innovative PhD research on war and conflict using unique museum collections.
- Company: Imperial War Museums, a leader in public history and heritage.
- Benefits: Funding, access to world-class resources, and collaboration with experts.
- Other info: Engage with public history and gain valuable interdisciplinary skills.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on understanding modern conflicts while developing your academic career.
- Qualifications: Strong background in history or related fields and a clear research proposal.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 £ per year.
Imperial War Museums (IWM) offers Doctoral Awards to support collaborative PhD research projects focused on the history and impact of modern war and conflict. These prestigious studentships are designed to foster innovative and interdisciplinary research using IWM’s extensive collections, which include archives, artworks, photographs, film, and personal testimonies.
The programme enables doctoral candidates to work in partnership with a UK higher education institution, benefiting from joint supervision by academic experts and IWM curators. Research topics are expected to align with IWM’s mission to deepen understanding of the causes, course, and consequences of conflict, and may cover a wide range of historical, cultural, social, and political perspectives.
Award holders will gain access to IWM’s world-leading resources and collections, as well as opportunities to engage with public history, exhibitions, and knowledge exchange activities. The programme encourages applicants to develop projects that demonstrate originality, methodological rigour, and public engagement potential. These studentships typically follow a full-time PhD structure over three to four years, with the candidate registered at a partner university while working closely with IWM throughout the duration of the award.
Eligibility Criteria- Applicants must secure admission to a PhD programme at a UK higher education institution eligible to partner with IWM.
- A strong academic background in a relevant discipline such as history, museum studies, heritage studies, war studies, or related fields.
- Applicants should meet the entry requirements of the host university, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency where applicable.
- Candidates must demonstrate a clear research proposal aligned with IWM’s collections and research priorities.
- Strong research and analytical skills in humanities or social sciences.
- Ability to work with archival and museum collections.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Capacity for independent research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Interest in public history, heritage, and dissemination of research to wider audiences.
Funding typically includes a stipend in line with UKRI doctoral funding rates and may cover tuition fees, subject to the terms of the partner university and funding arrangement.
Application DeadlineVaries annually depending on the specific doctoral award call.
Doctoral Awards (Collaborative PhD Studentships in War and Conflict Studies) in London employer: RFCSR
Imperial War Museums (IWM) is an exceptional employer for those pursuing a Doctoral Award in War and Conflict Studies, offering a unique opportunity to engage with world-class resources and collections. The collaborative PhD studentships foster a vibrant work culture that values interdisciplinary research and public engagement, while providing access to expert supervision and professional development opportunities. Located in London, IWM not only supports academic growth but also encourages meaningful contributions to the understanding of modern conflict, making it an inspiring place for aspiring scholars.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Doctoral Awards (Collaborative PhD Studentships in War and Conflict Studies) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty in War and Conflict Studies. They can offer insights into the application process and might even give you a heads-up on opportunities that aren't widely advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your research proposal spot on! Make sure it aligns with IWM’s collections and research priorities. We recommend drafting a clear, concise proposal that showcases your originality and methodological approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your communication skills. Practice discussing your research interests and how they connect to public history and heritage. Remember, it's all about showing your passion and expertise!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we often have additional resources and tips available to help you stand out from the crowd.
We think you need these skills to ace Doctoral Awards (Collaborative PhD Studentships in War and Conflict Studies) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Research Proposal:Your research proposal is your chance to shine! Make sure it aligns with IWM’s collections and research priorities. Be original, show your methodological rigour, and highlight how your project can engage the public.
Show Off Your Academic Background:We want to see your strong academic background in relevant fields like history or war studies. Don’t forget to mention any specific skills or experiences that make you a great fit for this collaborative PhD opportunity!
Tailor Your Application:Make your application personal! Tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect your passion for war and conflict studies. Highlight any relevant experience with archival and museum collections, as well as your communication skills.
Apply Through Our Website:Ready to take the plunge? Make sure to apply through our website for a smooth application process. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of your proposed research topic and how it aligns with IWM’s collections. Be prepared to discuss your methodology and the significance of your work in the context of war and conflict studies.
✨Familiarise Yourself with IWM's Resources
Take some time to explore the Imperial War Museums' extensive collections before your interview. Understanding their archives, artworks, and personal testimonies will help you demonstrate how your research can utilise these resources effectively.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with academic experts and curators, be ready to discuss your experience in interdisciplinary collaboration. Highlight any past projects where you successfully worked with others to achieve common goals.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the programme, potential supervisors, and opportunities for public engagement. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
