What's Happening?
The University of the Arts London (UAL) is seeking six Storytelling Research Fellows through its AKO Storytelling Institute, in partnership with the Power of Pop Fund. These fellows will conduct original research over a nine-month period, focusing on how
popular culture influences social and environmental change. The research will explore storytelling across various media, including television, film, gaming, podcasts, and digital culture, to understand its impact on public attitudes, behaviors, and discourse. The initiative aims to produce actionable insights for creative practitioners, funders, and social impact organizations, culminating in a public symposium to showcase the findings. The fellowship is open to experienced researchers with a PhD or equivalent expertise in storytelling, popular culture, media, or related fields.
Why It's Important?
This initiative highlights the growing recognition of storytelling as a powerful tool for social change. By examining how narratives in popular culture can influence public perception and behavior, the research could provide valuable insights for industries and organizations aiming to drive social and environmental progress. The findings could inform creative and cultural practices, offering new strategies for engaging audiences and promoting positive change. This fellowship also underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research in understanding complex societal issues, potentially leading to innovative solutions and collaborations across sectors.
What's Next?
The selected fellows will design and manage their own research projects, working alongside a cohort and supported by the Institute's Head of Research. They will be responsible for communicating complex ideas to diverse audiences and translating evidence into practical recommendations. The culmination of their work will be presented at a public symposium, providing a platform for discussion and dissemination of their findings. This event could attract interest from creative practitioners, funders, and social impact organizations, potentially leading to further collaborations and initiatives.
