MRes Masters by Research Studentship

The School of Film, Music and Theatre at University College Cork, Ireland, is seeking a candidate for an MRes – Masters by Research -- Studentship as part of our working relationship with Cork Opera House.

Overview

The Studentship is one of the four pillars of the COH-UCC collaboration. An independent-minded, driven artist, whose artistic process demonstrates strong affinities with research-based investigations, and who enjoys engaging with theory-practice integrated approaches, will be well-suited to this opportunity.

Studentship Details

• Studentship Value: €14,000 (fees/stipend/expenses allowance)
• Duration: One Year
• Start date: October 1st, 2025
• Final Submission: September 30, 2026

Project Description

We seek a candidate who will develop a practice-inclusive project for an MRes degree. The practical, artistic outcome of the MRes will be an audience-engaging exploration of Cork Opera House as a building, as a creative space, or as a key location in the cultural landscape of Cork City.

Artistic Outcome

The artwork designed by the student will invite the audience to self-guide through the Opera House's architecture in some way. The medium of the work might take the form of (but is not limited to) a creative-writing driven, or play text-driven, performative sound walk or podcast-style recording; a self-guided mixed sound tour; a piece of sonic or audio art; one or more musical compositions; or any combination thereof.

Theoretical Component

The theoretical component of the MRes work will take the form of a combination of the following:

• A contextualisation and assertion of the originality of the aesthetics of the final work, addressing themes like space, architecturality, performativity, historical engagements, site-specific investigation, etc.
• An articulation of an artistic research methodological approach adapted to the unique qualities of the artwork
• Articulation of experimentation with how best audiences are drawn to engage with the work in question, including historically marginalised audiences.
• Explorations and contextualisation of artistic process, developing methods for new modalities of artistic outcome.
• Explorations of historical, cultural, and personal discourse regarding Cork Opera House: its past, present and future.

Support

• An academic supervisor or supervisory team will be attributed to you to guide you in your work.
• You will have shared access to the sound, theatre and media facilities at UCC.
• Cork Opera House will provide you with access to the space, with artistic stimulation, and as you approach your final artistic outcome, logistical support and technical support to ensure that your work comes to fruition, as well as PR support to the final event/showing.

Application Process

Because of the timeline for candidacy, we will not be able to offer this studentship to candidates not legally able to live and work in Ireland without obtaining a visa, and it is thus limited to EU citizen candidates or others who have permission to live and work in Ireland.

How to Apply

1. Please view the online form available and email the documents required.
2. You should then apply for the MRes at the UCC application portal.

UCC Positive Action Statement

University College Cork is committed to being a fully inclusive global university which actively recruits, supports and retains colleagues from all sectors of society. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) are core values under our UCC Strategic Plan. UCC holds a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to advancing equality in higher education.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.