Ph.D. Research Appointment

The Mechanisation of Agriculture and the British Agricultural Steam Engine Industry, 1840-1920

Applications are invited from researchers who wish to investigate the economic and social impact of the mechanization of agriculture and the British agricultural steam engine industry between c.1840 and c.1920. It is proposed that the research, funded by the Museum of English Rural Life as a PhD studentship over three years, commencing in October 2009, should lead to the submission of a Ph.D. thesis on this topic.

The aim of the research is to produce either a comprehensive examination of the impact of this form of mechanization on British farming and rural society, or a detailed analysis of the emergence of what was, in its day, a globally significant manufacturing industry which influenced farming practice worldwide. The research will be centred on the extensive collections of primary and secondary material held at the Museum of English Rural Life at the University of Reading. These comprise published literature, contemporary journals, and, in particular, the business records of the leading steam engine manufacturers.

While no area of previous expertise is specified, this appointment should be especially suitable for graduates with interests in agricultural/rural history, economic history, industrial history, business history, or economics.

Further details

Click here for details of  how to apply 

For further informal discussions about the research supervision please contact Professor Mark Casson m.c.casson@henley.reading.ac.uk

or Professor Andrew Godley a.c.godley@henley.reading.ac.uk

or for information about the research resources please contact Dr Jonathan Brown j.h.brown@reading.ac.uk.

Deadlines for applications 30th April 2009