Classics Research

We pursue and supervise research across an exceptionally wide range of topics in Greek, Roman and Near Eastern history, archaeology and art, as well as Greek and Latin language, literature and thought, late antique and Byzantine studies, and reception studies.

We have a strong record of attracting major research grants. Our senior staff have recently received funding from the AHRC, the British Academy and the Leverhulme Trust for projects concerning the digitisation of Greek inscriptions, the economy of Greek and Roman Egypt, freedmen in the Roman world, Classical Greek poetic style, ancient pantomime and philosophy under the Roman Empire.

Other areas of activity brought into the Department, or strengthened, by recent appointments, include Medieval Latin, Roman mosaics and mosaicists, and ancient Persia. We have successful ongoing research projects in collaboration with the College's Centre for Computing in the Humanities and the British Museum. We work with the School of Arts & Humanities Centre for Hellenic Studies, which combines the resources of Classics and Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies in organising major public lectures by leading scholars (the Runciman Lecture, the Greek Archaeological Committee Lecture) and biennial international conferences (recent topics include Images of Alexandria, Personification in the Ancient World, and Images and Uses of Socrates).

You will work mainly with your principal supervisor, who will read and discuss your work with you on a regular basis, advise you about attendance at seminars and direct you to any training opportunities. You will also have a second supervisor who will be able to advise you on particular aspects of your research. You will have an annual meeting with our Postgraduate and Research Committee, to monitor your progress and to give you the opportunity to discuss all aspects of your experience as a research student. We run regular research seminars, which are both opportunities for staff and students to present and discuss current research and social occasions. You will also have the opportunity to attend the various research seminars organised through the Institute of Classical Studies.

We attach great importance to the identification of training needs, and will direct you individually to courses we think will support your research. These may be provided centrally in King's, or outside.