PhD Collaborations

The British Library has a strong track record of enhancing the national research base through involvement in doctoral research and training programmes. We partner on suitable research projects across all disciplines, nationally and internationally, in a variety of ways, including through the AHRC Collaborative Doctoral Partnerships (CDP) programme and ESRC CASE awards.

Currently, over 25 doctoral students, representing over 20 different university partners based across the UK, are working with the Library on collaborative research projects.

This research covers the full range of our collections, content and expertise – from Anglo-Saxon manuscripts to digital publishing technologies, and from oral history to ethnomusicology or cartography.

Our collaborative doctoral students enable us to develop a shared understanding of our collections, as well as enhancing their accessibility, making material and resources available to researchers for the first time.

Collaborative doctoral research informs our cultural programme, including major exhibitions on West Africa (2015), Shakespeare (2016), The Russian Revolution (2017), Anglo-Saxons (2018), Elizabeth and Mary (2021), and Alexander the Great (2023). It is also providing valuable insights and expertise in support of new research partnerships and cultural engagement initiatives.

For case studies and further details, visit www.bl.uk/research-collaboration/doctoral-research