We are thinking about the form of archives – and the consequences of ephemera (digital and otherwise) here and are pleased to announce a studentship:
Fanfic in the Archive: ephemera, ethics, engagement
This funded PhD project will examine fanfiction by and about Black British people and the ways in which such fanfiction has been historically underrepresented in archives and national collections. It will explore questions like: What are the challenges and rewards of incorporating fanfiction in institutional archives? How do Black British fanfiction authors and audiences preserve inclusive community spaces and/or navigate white-mainstream archives? How can the contribution of fanfiction authors and audiences be formally acknowledged while retaining core principles of collaboration, anonymity and provocation? Based in the Department of English Literature at the University of Birmingham, the project will use an interdisciplinary approach, engaging with disciplines such as Digital Cultures, Black Studies, Media History, Library Science and Cultural Heritage. A placement at the British Library will enable the student to explore these questions with experts there, and the student will be encouraged to shape the project according to their interests and evolving expertise.
Applicants must be of Black or Black mixed heritage as these scholarships are designed to create opportunities and address underrepresentation in academia.
For more information, please see: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/scholarships-and-funding/postgraduate-scholarships/125-english-literature