The University of Liverpool’s Institute of Irish Studies has appointed Professor Peter Shirlow as Director and Blair Chair.
Professor Shirlow joins the Institute from Queens University, Belfast where he held the position of Deputy Director of the Institute for Conflict Transformation and Social Justice.
He will begin at the University in August, and described his new role as a “wonderful opportunity” and a “privilege”.
Professor Shirlow said: “’The Blair Chair is a wonderful opportunity to promote Irish themes and research across these islands.
“Ireland is a vital part of life in Great Britain in terms of trade, history, art and culture, migration and wider political developments. This post provides a fascinating opportunity to develop and support those links and in particular give voice to the many people in Great Britain who have Irish roots.
“The future of both Britain and Ireland are intertwined and it is a privilege to be in a position to aid that mutuality through scholarship and community outreach.”
Professor Shirlow takes up the joint position following the retirement of Professor Marianne Elliott in January. Since then, Head of Department Dr Frank Shovlin has operated as Institute Acting Director. Dr Shovlin will continue in this role until Professor Shirlow’s arrival.
Dr Shovlin said: “I am delighted to welcome Professor Shirlow to his new posting as Blair Chair at the Institute of Irish Studies. Peter has an outstanding track record as a scholar, teacher and academic leader.
“A Belfast man, his research interests include political violence, post-conflict transformation, and policing and the community. He has published more than 80 pieces of work, including the recently acclaimed monograph, The End of Ulster Loyalism? (2012).
“My colleagues and I at the Institute very much look forward to working with Peter in continuing to advance the study of Ireland and all things Irish over the coming years.”
Former Blair Chair, Professor Marianne Elliott, has retained a role at the University as an Emeritus and Honorary Professor.