Animation in Ireland

Summary

Irish animation is currently experiencing a renaissance, evidenced by a series of Oscar-nominated and winning films from Cartoon Saloon, such as The Secret of Kells (2009), Song of the Sea (2014), The Breadwinner (2017), and Wolfwalkers (2021)—as well as acclaimed animated shorts like Quest (1996) and Late Afternoon (2018). Despite this, academic research on Irish animation remains sparse.

Tracing its roots back to 1910 with pioneering works like James Horgan’s Clock Tower, Irish animation has evolved significantly. The period between the 1950s and 1980s saw a surge in advertising and educational animation, which was further revolutionized in the 1980s and 1990s by Bluth Studio’s introduction of advanced technology and a commercial industry model. Since 2000, Irish animation has struck a balance between artistic expression and commercial success. It is rooted in Irish literature and heritage, serving as a medium for expressing national identity and collective memory, and has emerged as a vital form of national cinema. The industry’s expansion is supported by a host of studios across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, contributing to the distinctive characteristics and aesthetics that define Irish animation.

This PhD project seeks to address the scholarly gap in the history and theory of Irish cinema with a focus on animation. We invite candidates to apply diverse approaches—cinematic, historical, cultural, contextual, industrial, or multidisciplinary—to develop a robust theoretical framework that will enrich the field.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• Research proposal of 2000 words detailing aims, objectives, milestones and methodology of the project

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• For VCRS Awards, Masters at 75%
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

Our fully funded PhD scholarships will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years* (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of £900 per annum is also available.

These scholarships, funded via the Department for the Economy (DfE) and the Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS), are open to applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period (individual project advertisements will note where part time options apply).

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.