Overview
Researchers Associate – Coptic in Manchester (UKRI) role at The University of Manchester. We are seeking a committed and engaged postdoctoral research associate (PDRA) with skills in Coptic and Arabic to work on the UKRI-funded project “Coptic in Manchester: Connecting Manuscripts and Communities”. This collaborative project on Coptic manuscripts in the John Rylands Research Institute and Library (JRRIL) will bridge the existing divide between traditional academic research on these artefacts and the local Coptic community. The PDRA will be housed at the JRRIL.
Responsibilities
* Collaborate with the local Coptic Orthodox community to identify key manuscripts in the JRRIL that can illuminate the formative period of Coptic history, followed by detailed analysis of the selected manuscripts.
* Investigate the history of the Coptic archive at the John Rylands Library, situating it within the broader narrative of colonial-era collecting practices and their contemporary legacies.
* Raise awareness and access to the Coptic collection in Manchester, through collection encounters, a public conference, and a co-created digital exhibition and edited volume featuring critical editions, translations, articles, and reflections.
Role and activities
The post holder (PDRA) will primarily work on the manuscripts, writing detailed and engaging descriptions in English and translations into Arabic. They will work with line manager Dr Sarah Parkhouse in the University of Manchester’s Religions and Theology Department, and the project Co-I Dr Jeremy Penner, Research Curator of African and Near Eastern Manuscripts in the John Rylands. There is the opportunity to partake in departmental life and also gain knowledge of curatorial practices.
Key collaborators are the Coptic Church in Stockport, Manchester, and the Coptic Church in Llandudno, Wales. The project has an extensive and international advisory board. A PDRA seeking an academic career may find the balance between traditional research and co-creation appealing.
Qualifications and requirements
* Skills in Coptic and Arabic.
* Postdoctoral research experience or equivalent in relevant fields.
* Ability to write detailed manuscript descriptions in English and translations into Arabic.
* Wamiliarity with curatorial practices and working with manuscript collections preferred.
Equality and working arrangements
As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.
Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here. Blended working arrangements may be considered.
Logistics
Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.
Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Dr Sarah Parkhouse
Email: sarah.parkhouse@manchester.ac.uk
General enquiries:
Email: People.Recruitment@manchester.ac.uk
Technical support:
Jobtrain: 0161 850 2004
This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.
Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.
Seniority level
* Internship
Employment type
* Full-time
Job function
* Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
* Industries: Higher Education
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