This Applied Research Collaborative Studentship, supported by the Scottish Graduate School for the Arts and Humanities (SGSAH), offers a position for an interdisciplinary PhD researcher to contribute to the development of a ‘Literature House’ for Edinburgh, in partnership with the Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust, and researchers at Edinburgh Napier University and the University of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust was established in 2004, the first city to receive the designation. It is now one of 39 cities of literature across 28 countries, and occupies a leading role in the international network supported by UNESCO. Building on 16 years of success promoting Edinburgh’s literary history, supporting new Scottish writing, and leading the way for newly-designated cities of literature around the world, the Trust is now undertaking a new project, establishing a ‘Literary Quarter’ on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile to give literary activities a permanent physical presence for the benefit of residents and visitors. In partial fulfilment of this aim, the Trust is repurposing the historic John Knox House as a ‘Literature House’ as a focus for Scottish writing.

The PhD project will involve historical and theoretical research, and the gathering and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data regarding user and stakeholder attitudes, expectations and modes of engagement. It will also involve analysis of how digital capabilities might be used within the Literature House to fulfil strategic objectives, engaging users at local, national and global levels. Alongside academic research, this studentship includes six months on placement with the City of Literature Trust, participating in planning and delivery for the initial public launch of the Literature House, and contributing to community engagement activities.

For more information and how to apply, please visit: https://www.findaphd.com/phds/project/the-literature-house-in-the-digital-age-new-directions-for-literary-heritage/?p121524

Closing deadline: Monday 30th November 2020