Where are you from? I am from Anglesey, North Wales.
What is the subject of your doctoral research project? I began my research project in April, so I am still very much in the early stages of what I hope will become a fascinating study. My research focuses on Penrhyn Quarry and the illnesses and injuries experienced by the quarrymen who worked there. I am particularly interested in exploring the realities of working in the slate industry and how the dangerous conditions of quarrying affected the health of its workforce. Alongside this, I will examine the development of health and safety regulations within the quarrying industry and how changing attitudes towards occupational health influenced the protection of workers. I will also touch upon the wider development of the history of medicine, placing the experiences of the Penrhyn quarrymen within the broader medical, social and industrial changes taking place during the Victorian period.
What are your main research interests? I am fascinated by the history of medicine, particularly during the Victorian era. The rapid changes taking place during this period—from advances in medical knowledge and treatment to growing awareness of public health and disease—make it an incredibly interesting period to study. I am especially interested in how these developments affected ordinary people and local communities, and how medicine was shaped by the wider social and industrial changes of Victorian Britain.
Tell us about your career so far and what led you to ISWE and your doctoral research project? I graduated from Bangor University in 2024 with a First-Class degree in Law with History, before completing a PGCE in History at Bangor University. I am now a qualified secondary-school teacher in North Wales, where I teach both History and Science. My academic and professional journey has allowed me to combine two subjects that I have always been passionate about: History and Medicine. My interest in the history of medicine developed particularly during my undergraduate studies, when I had the opportunity to explore the subject in greater depth through my historical research. I became fascinated by the ways in which medical knowledge, public health and society have evolved alongside wider changes in Britain. This interest has continued to grow throughout my teaching career and has encouraged me to explore the history of medicine beyond the classroom, particularly the relationship between medicine, industry and local communities in North Wales.
What is your favourite thing about ISWE and being a doctoral researcher? I am looking forward to being part of a community and sharing new ideas!
What is your proudest achievement since joining ISWE? I would say working as a full time teacher and doing a PhD as well!
What is your favourite historical period and why? My favourite periods to study are the Tudor and Victorian eras, largely because both were periods of significant change and transformation. I find the Tudor period particularly fascinating because of the political, religious and social upheaval that reshaped England, while the Victorian era interests me because of the rapid developments in industry, science, medicine and public health. I particularly enjoy exploring how these wider changes affected ordinary people and transformed everyday life. The Victorian period is especially interesting to me because of my passion for the history of medicine and the way medical developments were closely connected to wider changes in society.
Your favourite place in Wales? My favourite place is Rhosneigr. I love the beach and the local shops and cafes!
What are your hobbies or favourite extracurricular activities? Have you got any other interesting projects on the go?
Outside of teaching and my academic interests, I am very active and regularly go to the gym. This year, I have challenged myself by taking part in a half HYROX as well as numerous DEKA competitions, both locally and in Manchester. I enjoy the challenge and variety that these events bring, and they have become a great way to keep active and set myself new goals.
I also really value spending time with my friends and family, whether that is simply catching up or going out and exploring new places together. I love travelling and, whenever I get the opportunity, I enjoy going on holiday. One of my favourite places to visit is the South of France, where I particularly enjoy the beautiful scenery, food and relaxed atmosphere.
Contact Molly:
mlw20tfq@bangor.ac.uk
