Animals in the Anthropocene: Histories of Fragility and Endurance - MScR in Global Environmental Challenges

About the project

The Anthropocene, the current epoch of extraordinary human influence over global places and processes, is frequently characterised by specific varieties of human relationship with non-human animal life. The destruction of animal habitats all over the world is one of the associated factors that has made species extinction a key consequence of human-animal engagements in modernity. This research challenge invites prospective research students to propose projects that think historically about species fragility and vulnerability in the Anthropocene. Projects may relate to specific stories of extinction and/or depletion, to specific habitats, to histories of resilience and resurgence where animal populations have survived and/or recovered in the context of conservation efforts, or to the development of mutually sustainable relationships between people and the rest of the animal inhabitants of the wild world.

Why choose this opportunity?

You will gain an understanding of the key challenges facing animals in the modern world. You will also benefit from membership of the Centre for Environmental Humanities, a vibrant research centre that can support you in your scholarly growth and in the context of a diverse cohort of environmental scholars. You will also benefit from working with an expert in animal history/environmental history and who is presently working on histories of species vulnerability and adaptation in the context of dark environments.

About you

The capacity to identify and engage with archives, and to use archival materials to form cohesive analyses. The ability to communicate research findings in compelling fashion, not least in the form of a research dissertation. A passion for wildlife and a concern for he lives of animals would also position the student well.

About the programme

The Cabot Institute Masters by Research is a unique opportunity to work with a leading supervisor to deliver a one-year research project that you are passionate about. The programme will bring together exceptional students from all backgrounds with a common mission – protecting the planet and securing our future. As well as learning from your supervisor, you will learn from your fellow students; coming together to share your ideas and developing your problem-solving skills as part of an interdisciplinary team over the year. As well as being hosted within the Cabot Institute you will have a direct relationship within the relevant School for your research area, allowing you to fully take advantage of a wide-ranging research community.
Alongside your research project, you will benefit from a unique personal development and transferable skills training schedule. These unaccredited, optional events will give you the opportunity to come together with your peers to improve your research skills and develop an innovative approach to the global challenges we face today. You will also be encouraged to propose your own interests for a seminar series, giving you a unique platform to mould your studies and get involved directly with the programme. The training schedule will focus on:
• Interdisciplinarity & Collaboration
• Innovation & Enterprise
• Making your research a success
• Research communications
• Ignite your interests (your chance to propose ideas for a seminar series)
You will also gain access to the Cabot Institute’s network of experts across academia, government, business and industry via networking events. These opportunities will not only support your research, but give you the edge in your future career, whatever that may be.