At the time of the present climate crisis, it is important to understand the relation between craft makers and the environment, their interactions, interconnections and interdependence of craft, its materiality, and the process of making. In this sense, intangible heritage is an important asset that needs to be preserved, transferred to the next generations and valued. It needs to be considered essential in the mediation between nature and humans. Keeping this in mind, Nepal Art Village in collaboration with the University of Leicester is working with the British Council’s Crafting Futures programme to map, document and analyse through four craft-based case studies. This review will concern diverse practices that have strong geographic indicators.  

We are looking for four Research Fellows to take on leading roles in preparing, collecting and studying data about the following craft practices: lokta paper making in Kathmandu, natural grass weaving in Lumbini, yak wool textile making in Pokhara and clay craft making in Janakpur.  

Expected outputs 

Through the research fellowship, participants will realise documentation and case studies on the state of the current use, threats and opportunities for conservation, demand and pressure on the source of materials used in craft making. Identify gaps and required interventions on the entire supply chain from nature to market and back to nature. Create opportunities to develop training and learning modules benefitting young entrepreneurs and other project stakeholders. Build a baseline for potential replication across Nepal and its extensive craft traditions. 

Programme 

Selected researchers will go through a series of capacity-building workshops consisting of 8 sessions over a 3-month period. Most of the program will be reserved for on-ground data collection and analysis together with the project partners. Researchers will be provided a grant to cover the cost of their involvement.   

Qualification, knowledge and experience 

We are looking for individuals with at least a master's level degree in Social Sciences (Sociology, Anthropology, Management, Public Policy, Journalism Design or Craft) OR equivalent professional qualifications. They should also have experience in standard techniques of qualitative analysis, including interviews knowledge and experience of research in social sciences, craft and/or design, sustainability. 

Proficiency of English and concerned local languages is required and candidates should have a strong interest in publishing academic research. Basic to intermediate knowledge of photography and videography is a plus.   

Eligibility 

We are looking for researchers who are based in the mentioned locations (or within a feasible travel distance). They should have excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to plan, implement and deliver a focused programme. As this is a collective undertaking, candidates should be able to excel in teamwork and work with self-initiation. Leadership skills, particularly those focusing on problem-solving and evidence of personal development of subject expertise are a must. Candidates should also be able to demonstrate research potential and enthusiasm for the concerned subject area.  

Application and Assessment 

Interested candidates can submit their Expression of Interest for this opportunity by filling out this form. You will be required to upload your CV for consideration. The form asks for basic personal information and a statement of purpose.  

The candidates' resumes will be reviewed by an international panel involved in the facilitation of the Fellowship. Assessment will be carried out based on the answers provided in the form and individual CV. 

The deadline to apply is 11:59 PM, Nepal Standard Time on 15 March 2021.  

Questions and queries can be addressed to arts@britishcouncil.org.np 

About Crafting Futures 

Crafting Futures is a global British Council programme, active in over 20 countries around the world with an extensive network of partners. Through making and international collaboration, Crafting Futures brings together craft practitioners, designers and organisations from around the world to explore possibilities for this future together. The programme is currently active in South East Asia, South Asia, Latin America and Wider Europe. 

About Nepal Art Village 

Nepal Art Village (NAV) is a company formed by artists, artisan families and their friends to mobilise artisanal and creative skills, knowledge and resources to leave a legacy and heritage for future generations to treasure and own. Provide the right natural, social and built environment conducive to facilitating excellence from concerned artists and creative people. And to provide economic opportunities for the residents of the “village” by nurturing it into a vibrant cultural destination. www.nepalartvillage.com 

About University of Leicester 

At the heart of the UK, Leicester is a leading university committed to international excellence, world-changing research and high-quality, inspirational teaching. Celebrating diversity among our staff and students; widening participation in higher education; engaging with local, national and international communities – all of these are part of what we do and who we are.  

Founded in 1921 as a memorial to the Great War, the University of Leicester has a proud history of ambitious projects that lead to amazing discoveries. This is where genetic fingerprinting was invented in 1984 and home of the team who found King Richard III. In our second century, we will continue to aspire to be the very best in everything that we do. 

UOL has dedicated focus on English education, international professional development, internships and study abroad programmes. UOL also provides consultancy covering a wide number of disciplines including education; teaching; computing; engineering; business; science; educational quality assurance; English language teaching; medicine and allied sciences, etc. www.leicester.edu