AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Partnership (CDP)

The University of Lincoln, in partnership with the British Museum, invites applications for a fully funded AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Partnership (CDP) PhD studentship commencing October 2026. This unique project explores how museum collections can illuminate the histories of human and non-human relationships in East Africa, focusing particularly on Kenya and the colonial period (1870–1930). Central to the research are cultural materials such as feathers, skins, tusks, headdresses, cloaks, and ornaments, now housed at the British Museum.

The studentship aims to uncover what these collections reveal about human/non-human interactions during the colonial era and how colonial collecting practices shaped or obscured these relationships. The project also investigates how East African communities understand the changing use of these materials and what this reveals about evolving ecological relationships, especially in the context of the climate crisis. Archival research, collaboration with East African communities, and oral history will be key methodologies, with the goal of reinserting ecological knowledge into the histories of these objects before it is lost.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the project according to their interests and expertise, including the choice of regions, communities, material types, and research methodologies. The studentship includes significant research time at the British Museum in London and qualitative fieldwork in East Africa, supported by an experienced supervisory team.

This four-year, full-time (or up to eight years part-time) studentship covers full UK home fees. International students are welcome but must pay the difference between home and international fees. The funding package includes a tax-free stipend of £23,405 per year (comprising a UKRI stipend, London-based CDP allowance, and CDP maintenance payment), plus up to £1,500 per year for travel and research expenses. Students also benefit from CDP-wide training and professional development events.

Applicants should hold or be completing a relevant Master's degree or have equivalent professional experience in History, Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, Environmental Studies, Museums/Heritage, or related disciplines. The position is open to both Home and International applicants, with a commitment to fieldwork in East Africa and work at both the University of Lincoln and the British Museum. Applications from Global Majority candidates are particularly encouraged.

For more information and to apply, visit the University of Lincoln's Research Studentships page and select the 'AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Partnership (CDP) studentship' drop-down. For queries, contact Dr Sarah Longair at [email protected]. A CDP Applicant Webinar will be held on 13 April 2026; sign up by emailing [email protected] with the subject 'Prospective Applicant Webinar' by 10 April 2026.