The UAL AKO Storytelling Institute, in partnership with the Power of Pop Fund, is seeking six Storytelling Research Fellows to undertake original research, exploring how popular culture contributes to social and environmental change.
Over a nine-month fellowship, you will design and deliver an independent research project, investigating how storytelling across media such as television, film, gaming, podcasts and digital culture shapes attitudes, behaviours and public discourse. Working alongside a cohort of fellows and supported by the Institute's Head of Research, you will produce rigorous, actionable insights for creative practitioners, funders and social impact organisations, culminating in a public symposium showcasing your findings.
About you
The fellowship is open to researchers whose work engages with storytelling, popular culture, media, narrative change, representation, audience behaviour, social change or related fields.
You will be an experienced researcher with a PhD or equivalent research expertise gained through academic, independent or professional practice.
With a strong track record of delivering high-quality research and engaging external partners, you will bring curiosity, critical thinking and a deep interest in the relationship between storytelling, popular culture and social change.
You will be confident designing and managing your own research project, communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences, and translating evidence into practical recommendations that can inform creative and cultural practice.
We are UAL
University of the Arts London (UAL) generates and inspires the creativity the world needs for a better future. Since 1842, our colleges have been defining creative education. With curiosity, imagination and intent we make work which creates lasting change for people and our planet. London is core to who we are, a place where we meet and share ideas with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
To apply please click the 'Apply' button.
Closing date: 11 September 2026 23:55.
UAL is committed to creating diverse and inclusive environments for all staff and students to work and learn – a university where we can be ourselves and reach our full potential. We offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and Staff Support Networks. We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, including race, disability, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and belief, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, and caring responsibility.
