The Pamela Cox Public History Prize recognises activities that enhance public understanding of social and cultural history. It was established as a mark of gratitude to our outgoing chair Professor Pamela Cox, who was tireless in efforts to open dialogue with different audiences while chairing the Social History Society.

The prize is awarded to a postgraduate student or an early career researcher who can demonstrate excellence in taking their research beyond the academy. The prize winner receives one year’s free membership of the SHS, a showcase on our Community Exchange and a £300 cash prize.

There are no restrictions on the format of activity undertaken: it could include work with museums and heritage organisations, co-production with community groups, the creation of online resources, media appearances, contributions to public policy, arts based projects or the organisation of events designed for non-academic audiences. However, the activity must have taken place in the past twelve months.

Previous winners include Dr Chad McDonald in 2020 for the exhibition ‘James Parkes and the age of intolerance’, Dr Alice Sage in 2021 for the project and virtual exhibition ‘Photographing Fairies’ and JC Niala in 2022 for the project ‘1918 Allotment’.

We will accept nominations from individual PGR/ECRs, their supervisors, or any member of the Social History Society. Anyone wishing to nominate is required to complete a nomination form providing details to verify the activities described.

All entries will be judged by the Social History Society committee in relation to their initiative, the way they have enhanced public understanding and their social benefit.

The award is open to all postgraduate research students currently registered at a UK HEI and post-docs within one year of their viva. The person nominated does not need to be a current member of the Society.

The deadline for applications is 17 May 2024.

Click here to fill in the nomination form