New Naval History PhD Opportunity – Patronage and the Royal Navy 1771 – 1815

If you have a good academic background in any relevant aspect of British eighteenth or nineteenth century history and have an interest in social advancement, professionalism and expertise, have a look a this advertisement for a doctoral studentship.

UCL and the National Maritime Museum are working collaboratively to offer this studentship which is supported by the AHRC and is great opportunity!

Using the Royal Navy as a case study, the successful candidate will utilise a wide variety of sources to examine the nature and broader meaning of patronage in late-eighteenth and early nineteenth century Britain. Using the collections in the NMM the candidate will make a detailed examination of the workings of patronage within the naval establishment. He or she will consult the papers of politicians, administrators and serving officers, and delve into the various applications, references and testimonials submitted. They will also asses how naval patronage conformed to wider social norms, perhaps comparing it to other professions such as the army, the church and the law.

For information and details of how to apply have a look at the following website: jobs.ac.uk