Research Fellow

Description:

The University of Warwick, Department of History seeks a Research Fellow to work with Dr. Anna Toropova on the Wellcome Trust Career Development Award project:
‘Traumatised Minds, Neurosis, and Hysteria in Soviet Medicine and Culture, 1917-1953’.

This project investigates scientific, medical, and cultural approaches to psychological trauma in the Soviet Union from 1917-1953. The study challenges existing assumptions about the dominance of Pavlovian models, instead uncovering a rich tradition of research on trauma, neurosis, and hysteria across Soviet republics.

The project will focus on:

• The regional diversity of trauma research, including in Ukraine, the Baltic states, Central Asia, and the Caucasus.
• The impact of local contexts on medical research, diagnosis, and treatment.
• The cultural resonance of trauma research in literature, cinema, and personal narratives.

As a Research Fellow, you will contribute to academic publications, public engagement, and collaborative research activities while developing your own independent research aligned with the project’s objectives.

🔹 About You:

The ideal candidate will:
✔ Hold a PhD (awarded by 1 September 2025) in History, Medical Humanities, Slavic Studies, or a related field.
✔ Have expertise in the history, language, and culture of one or more non-Russian Soviet republics.
✔ Conduct independent research contributing to the project’s aims.
✔ Produce journal articles (both solo and co-authored with Dr. Toropova).
✔ Help organize workshops and contribute to an edited volume.
✔ Assist in public engagement activities related to the project.

Candidates from underrepresented backgrounds in UK higher education are strongly encouraged to apply.

🔹 About The Department:

The Warwick History Department is among the largest and most prestigious in the UK, with:
🔹 Over 50 academic staff, 4 postdoctoral researchers, and 1,000+ undergraduate students.
🔹 High rankings in UK and global research evaluations (92% world-leading/internationally excellent in REF 2021).
🔹 Five specialist research centres, including the Centre for the History of Medicine and the European History Centre.

This role offers a dynamic environment within a globally connected university, supporting interdisciplinary and innovative research.

🔹 About The University:

The University of Warwick is a top-ranked, research-intensive institution:
🏆 Ranked 67th globally and 10th in the UK (QS World University Rankings 2024).
📚 92% of research rated world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).
🌍 A diverse, innovative academic community dedicated to real-world impact.

🔹 Benefits:

✔ 30 days annual leave + Christmas closure
✔ Flexible working arrangements
✔ Pension scheme & family-friendly policies
✔ Onsite childcare & parental leave benefits
✔ Learning & development opportunities