The Science of Sports Training c.1800-1940: examining the scientific and health content of training regimes in sport through the ‘long nineteenth century’

Applications are invited for a 3-year self-funded* PhD Studentship starting as soon as possible.

The history of sports medicine and exercise physiology are significantly understudied topics from the HSTM perspective. We welcome PhD proposals from candidates interested in examining the scientific and medical/health content of training regimes in sport through the ‘long nineteenth century’.

The student will use printed resources, such as training manuals, as well as materials from sporting organisations and other archival research to investigate who was providing advice to the participants in sporting events (male and female, amateur and professional), what theories about health, physiology and anatomy that advice drew from, and how this advice changed over time (and perhaps varied according to the sport, or the class or gender of the participant).

We welcome proposals from candidates who have interests in the evolution of specific sports (e.g. track and field, mountaineering, gymnastics), and particularly from candidates who are able to use non-English-language resources to create an international comparator for the British and American canon. Proposals with an interdisciplinary angle, e.g. incorporating literature studies, area studies or art history will also be considered where a suitable second supervisor can be identified in Birmingham.

* while there is no dedicated funding for this position, applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Dr Heggie to discuss funding possibilities.

Person Specification
Applicants should have a strong background in the history of science, technology and/or medicine. They should hold or realistically expect to obtain an Upper Second Class Honours degree in History or a related subject; candidates with a STEM undergraduate degree should either have had final year specialization in History of STEM, or a Masters level qualification in the History of Science, History of Medicine, Science Studies, or similar.

How to apply
Applications should be directed to Vanessa Heggie at [Email Address Removed]. To apply, please send:
• A Detailed CV, including your nationality and country of birth;
• Names and addresses of two referees;
• A covering letter highlighting your research experience/capabilities;
• Copies of your degree transcripts;
• Evidence of your proficiency in the English language, if applicable;
• A one page proposal for a PhD project

Applicants will be required to attend an interview. This can be conducted face –to –face, by telephone or skype