The Consortium for the Humanities and the Arts South-East England (CHASE) is delighted to announce a new partnership with the Stuart Hall Foundation (SHF) to support at least two studentships a year for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates to undertake doctoral research in arts and humanities.

As well as the usual benefits of a CHASE studentship, successful awardees will benefit from working with SHF to develop their career and research profile. Post holders will be able to engage with and contribute to the resources and networks of the Stuart Hall Foundation, including an annual gathering of Stuart Hall Foundation Scholars and Fellows, and privileged access to the work of the Foundation.

The studentships build on existing relationships between the Foundation and member institutions of the CHASE consortium.

CHASE Director Professor Kate Lacey said: “Two years ago, the ‘Broken Pipeline Report’ identified significant barriers to postgraduate research funding faced by BME applicants, and called for action to improve access and inclusion. There is much left to do, but I’m hopeful these dedicated studentships and our collaboration with the Stuart Hall Foundation are an important staging post in bringing the changes that are needed.”

Professor Gregor McLennan, Chair of the Academic Committee of the Stuart Hall Foundation added: 'This is an excellent initiative. We look forward to working with our CHASE colleagues - and the successful candidates - in the spirit of Stuart Hall's critical intellectual work in the humanities and his commitment to extending the reach of postgraduate education.'

University of Sussex Dean of Doctoral Studies Professor Jeremy Niven said: “I am delighted to welcome this new partnership. The University of Sussex seeks to value and celebrate the diversity of our campus community and partners, and I hope that these studentships will help to signal that CHASE is available to all.”

Details of the 2021/22 competition are available on the CHASE website. Pre-application sessions will take place on Friday 22nd October and Friday 5th November, both 1-2pm.