The Manchester Metropolitan University
Research Associate (Mary Shelley)
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Research Associate (Mary Shelley)
Manchester Metropolitan University’s School of English seeks to appoint an Outstanding Research Associate to support The Oxford Complete Works of Mary Shelley, edited by Professor Sharon Ruston and Professor Daniel Cook, with publication scheduled by Oxford University Press between 2028–2035.
This is an exciting opportunity for an early-career researcher specialising in Mary Shelley studies and the eighteenth- and/or nineteenth-century literature and culture to contribute to a pioneering editorial project in Romantic and Gothic studies.
About the School
The School of English is a vibrant, research-active community, renowned for its impact on culture, creativity, and communication. Based in Manchester—a UNESCO City of Literature—it hosts world-leading research, award-winning writers, and internationally renowned scholars.
Successful applicants will join a collaborative environment, including the Gothic Research Group, with access to exceptional resources and cultural partnerships across the city.
About the Role
Reporting to Professor Sharon Ruston, this position involves:
Key Responsibilities:
- Research & Editorial Support
- Tracing citations, references, and source materials across Mary Shelley’s works.
- Identifying and liaising with UK/international archives, libraries, and collections.
- Assisting with collation of editions and verifying editorial annotations/introductions.
- Compiling bibliographies and secondary reading lists.
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Scholarly Outputs
- Writing a comprehensive chronology of Mary Shelley’s life and works for the digital edition.
- Developing public-facing research outputs, including blog posts and newsletters.
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Digital & Communications
- Creating/maintaining the project’s WordPress website and social media presence.
- Organising project meetings and facilitating communicating between editors, advisory board, and Oxford University Press.
This role offers a rare chance to shape a landmark publication while developing expertise in scholarly editing, digital communications, and academic project management.
About You
A self-motivated, organised researcher with collaboration skills is essential. Candidates must demonstrate:
Essential Criteria
- Research expertise in Mary Shelley studies, including independent scholarly output.
- In-depth knowledge of Shelley’s works and current critical scholarship.
- Ability to synthesise complex information and communicate findings to diverse audiences.
- Creativity, initiative, and judgement in problem-solving approaches.
- Digital proficiency: WordPress, social media platforms, and design tools (e.g., Canva).
- Doctorate completed/nearing completion in a relevant humanities field.
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Desirable Criteria
- Experience assisting with scholarly/critical editions.
- Academic networking/partner development experience.
- Contribution to research funding proposals.
- Reading knowledge of French, German, or Italian.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Manchester Met embraces an inclusive culture prioritising equity for underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) applicants, disabled individuals, and LGBTQ+ staff. Accommodations and flexible working (including hybrid models) can be arranged upon request.
The university is a Disability Confident Leader, with a pledge to interview eligible disabled candidates. Support services include mentoring, accessibility resources, and professional development.
Apply Now (Job Description & Candidate Pack available in the original posting.)
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