Research

I am a trained historian. I hold three degrees in history: a BA (Hons) in Modern History, an MA in Irish History, and a doctorate. My thesis was on the intellectual and cultural interests of women in Ireland, 1740-1840. As you would expect, this background has given me a solid grounding in research methodology and techniques. I can take a vague idea and use my research skills to refine it into a concrete idea—or I can work within a defined framework using a range of client-supplied resources. My approach is flexible and ultimately defined by you. 

Services

I can provide either research or research guidance that is bespoke to your requirements. The results of the research can be presented in the medium of your choice, including notes, a written report, or as a video. 

Research types include:

  • genealogical
  • newspaper
  • general online
  • primary material [note that there may be distance limitations].
  • guidance in research methodology for non-science subjects.
Contact Lisa

Previous Work

My previous research experience includes the work undertaken as part of my Masters and doctoral degrees. In recent years I have carried out research relating to various writing jobs, including:

  • background historical research for novels set in 1950s Switzerland (The Chalet School Returns to the Alps, 2021, and Rosamund Heads the Chalet School, 2023; both Girls Gone By Publishers). 
  • primary research undertaken at University College Dublin on behalf of Carrickfergus Museum in 2012. This fed into the script for the Sean Lester exhibition at Carrickfergus that year, and was enhanced and extended with additional material for an event held on 19 September 2019. 
  • research required for further scriptwriting jobs, including 2021’s NI100 ‘Looking Back to Look Forward’ travelling exhibition for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council (MEABC); 2022’s Mary Alice Young exhibition, also MEABC.