Posted by Rosie Jennings on March 28th, 2025.
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Organising Identities and Inclusion in the Cultural and Creative Industries
Stipend: £19,237 per annum
Start date: Sunday 1 February 2026
Application deadline: Monday 9 June, 23:59 BST
The Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs) are renowned for their dynamic nature (Scott, 2022) and their influential role in shaping societal narratives (Ali & Byrne, 2022). Despite their significant economic and cultural impact, the CCIs remain an understudied field.
This doctoral research project seeks to expand the conversation around inclusion within the CCIs, with a specific focus on genders and sexualities. Although the CCIs are often perceived as open and creative spaces, evidence suggests that challenges persist, particularly for individuals expressing non-conforming identities (Conor, 2021). While progress has been made in certain creative sectors, traditional venues and art forms often lag behind, perpetuating gendered inequalities in organisations that rely on non-standard work (Vincent & Coles, 2023).
This project invites proposals that examine the lived experiences of non-conforming individuals within the CCIs, focusing on the relationship between the freedom to express one’s identity and the opportunities available to pursue professional aspirations and artistic endeavours. By analysing how the CCIs cultivate environments that either support or hinder genuine identity expression, negotiation, and career advancement, this research aims to uncover the intricate dynamics at play.
We encourage proposals that recognize the CCIs’ potential to influence societal perceptions of gender and sexuality and to foster systemic change. By exploring how identities are negotiated within the CCIs, successful candidates will illuminate the mechanisms that facilitate or obstruct inclusion, offering critical insights into the broader dynamics of identity formation and representation.
Learn more about this project or find out more about applying for The Open University’s PhD studentships.
