The School of Humanities has an ambitious and lively research culture. We are a community of historians, theorists and practice-led researchers. 

Research processes are fundamental to the work and development of our undergraduate and postgraduate students, whose teaching is enriched by the research activity and interests of doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, all of whom are also experienced and committed teachers.  

Our academics regularly achieve national and international peer recognition for their contributions to knowledge, and we are committed to sharing the outcomes of their work publicly, and engaging in knowledge transfer, to the benefit of communities within our region. Much of our activity involves partnerships with colleagues based in other universities and with professional organisations and companies.

Our research in English Studies ranges from original poems and performances, to literary criticism and cultural theory, to ethnographic language studies and computer-assisted linguistic analysis. Striving for excellence in all areas therefore entails the celebration of diversity in ‘English Studies’, and a commitment not only to pure subject specialisation, but also to the interdisciplinary work which challenges traditional boundaries.

Historical research in the School spans early modern Britain, pre-colonial West Africa, and modern Britain, Ireland, and the USA. Areas of thematic strength in research include gender, imperialism, slavery, political culture, and religious history. 

Here are some of our researchers:

Prof. Darren Oldridge

Prof. Nicoleta Cinpoes

Find out more about Research at Worcester