Science and Museums in the People’s Republic of China and the UK since
1900: Engaging people in physical science research
1+3-yr FT ESRC CASE (collaborative) MA/PhD Studentship, commencing
September 2012
Centre for Chinese Studies
University of Manchester
in collaboration with
Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester, and Centre for Museology,
University of Manchester
In a comparative study the project analyses and proposes how museums can
engage people in the major breakthroughs in physical science and
technology which shape the modern world. The focus of the project is on
the historical trajectories that inform museum representations of
physical science and technology in China and the UK since 1900.
China recognises physics and technology research as essential for the
country to play an increasingly prominent role in the global community.
Since 1900, physics is a subject in which Western countries,
especially Britain, have long led the way with major developments. In
China, museums representing physical science and technology are a
relatively recent development: since 2000, there has been a programme to
create about 200 science museums throughout China, with about 100
opening in the last decade. These largely contain interactive exhibits
explaining the principles and processes of science, rather than past
scientific achievements and research taking place today. Historical
research on Chinese museum culture is also in its infancy.
The project aims to critically reflect on current methodologies and
representations of physical science in China and the UK, and propose new
ways of engaging people in both China and the UK in current research
taking place both locally and internationally. The study will focus in
particular on the local science museums of Shanghai and Zhejiang (East
China) province, amongst the leading economic areas of China that can
look back at a history of more than a hundred years, and the Museum of
Science and Industry (MOSI) in Manchester. Both will be researched
within the broader context of recent developments in science popularisation.
The project has both historical and practical components. Through
collaboration with MOSI, the research will feed directly into museum
practice via MOSI and Chinese science museums/ science popularisation
organisations in Shanghai and Zhejiang province in the first instance.
The studentship is open to UK/EU undergraduates who have at least a 2:1
Honours degree in Chinese studies, History or Social Studies of
Science/Technology, Museum Studies or a related subject. Proficiency in
Chinese and English required (Classical Chinese advantageous). For
applications for +3 yr (PhD) route an MA degree with merit or higher
must be completed by September 2012.
Students applying for the 1+3 year (MA+PhD) are required to undergo MA
training depending on previous qualifications in the subject area. For
details of MA programmes available to study in connection with this
project please go to:
– Museology:
http://www.arts.manchester.ac.uk/museology/postgraduatestudy/taught/
– History of Science:
http://www.chstm.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/
– Languages and Cultures (research route):
http://www.llc.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/a-z/course/?code=08810
Applicants are requested to submit a letter of application (of no more
than 500 words) stating an outline of their interests and relevant
qualifications for the project along with a CV by 23 March 2012 to Miss
Rachel Corbishley at [email protected]. You also need to
apply online for an appropriate programme (either PhD in Chinese Studies
or one of the MA programmes listed above). To apply for a place on a
programme please go to: http://www.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/howtoapply/
Please note: you are advised to submit your programme application to the
University by *7 March 2012*, to ensure that you are in receipt of an
offer of a place on a programme in advance of the 23 March 2012
studentship deadline.
Further information please contact: Professor Dagmar Schaefer,
University of Manchester, Samuel Alexander Building, Oxford Road,
Manchester, M13 9PL, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 161 275 7052. Email: