PhD Scholarship in Grundtvig Studies: Writing with the Dead – N.F.S. Grundtvig’s Use of Historical Sources
Explore the use of AI and archival research to uncover how Grundtvig engaged with historical texts. Investigate a theological figure's influence across antiquity and modern times using novel digital humanities tools.
AI-generated overview
Project Description
Project Overview
The Faculty of Theology at the University of Copenhagen invites applications for a 36-month PhD scholarship starting November 1, 2026, as part of the Writing with the Dead (WWD) project. The research examines Danish theologian N.F.S. Grundtvig’s use of historical sources spanning antiquity to the Early Church, analyzing both published works and over 80,000 unpublished manuscript pages transcribed via AI software Transkribus.
What You Will Do
The PhD candidate will conduct collaborative archival research using Grundtvig’s Manuscripts Online, focusing on Late Antiquity and Early Church sources. Participation in related teaching, conferences, and interdisciplinary dialogue within Church History and across departments is expected. Skills useful for the role include proficiency in ancient Greek, Latin, and 19th century Danish vernacular.
Expected Outcomes
The research will contribute original insights into Grundtvig’s textual methods and their theological implications, supporting the development of new conceptual histories. The project offers opportunities to advance Grundtvig scholarship and enrich interdisciplinary approaches combining Modern Genre Studies and Conceptual History.
Why This Matters
Understanding Grundtvig’s engagement with historical sources deepens knowledge of Danish theological thought and its historical context. The project’s innovative use of AI technology for archival access also showcases new methodologies for humanities research, fostering broader academic collaboration and heritage preservation.
Entry Requirements
How to Apply
Eligibility
Supervisor Profile
Associate Professor Anders Holm leads research in Church History with a focus on theological thought and archival studies related to N.F.S. Grundtvig. He is principal investigator of the Writing with the Dead project, combining interdisciplinary approaches including Modern Genre Studies and Conceptual History, and employing AI for manuscript transcription.