Postgraduate research opportunities SGSAH CDA Project - A Hidden Migration History: South Asian Medical Professionals in Scotland 1872-2022

There is little to no existing research on the history of South Asian doctors in Scotland. This research proposal emerges from a partnership between the AHRC EDI Leadership Fellow project ‘EDI in Scottish Heritage’ (2021-2022) and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow (RCPSG) which uncovered the records of the first South Asian licentiates at the college in 1872 (see https://heritageblog.rcpsg.ac.uk/2022/08/05/a-history-of-the-first-south-asian-licentiates/). The short heritage placement that uncovered this information formed the basis of a public event and a blog. Feedback from the public event (primarily attended by medical professionals) asked for more information about the history of South Asian doctors in Scotland. This proposal is a direct response to the desire for more information to help raise awareness of the breadth and depth of South Asian life and history in Scotland.

The purpose of this project is to address a gap in knowledge about the history and significance of South Asian doctors and medical professionals in Scotland.

The research will be guided by five key questions: 

1. What were the experiences of South Asian medical students and professionals in Scotland and how did these change over time?
2. What were the connections between British Indian medical institutions and Scottish educational and licensing organisations such as the RCPSG?
3. What were the specific ties between Scottish medical institutions and the British Empire in India?
4. What role did medical networks play in the experiences of South Asian medical professionals?
5. How does the early history of South Asian licentiates inform contemporary social issues connected to South Asian students and migrants in Scotland?

In order to answer these key research questions, the project will draw on a variety of sources including archival sources based at the RCPSG, medical journals, and oral history interviews with South Asian medical professionals trained in Scotland (and potentially their families) about their personal and professional experiences.

The project will also allow the student to develop their public engagement experience. This will include engaging with South Asian community groups to raise awareness of relevant findings and the engagement, designing and delivering 3 public events (1 a year) to present preliminary findings and/or run panels on related topics to bring together interdisciplinary expertise. During the second or third year, the student will also undertake a 3-6 month placement at the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow in order to further develop their archival research skills and knowledge of public engagement.

Further information

Open to both Home and International applicants.