The new permanent post, expected to be filled in October 2026, ensures that Irish history will have a lasting presence at one of the world’s leading History faculties. The gift builds upon an enduring relationship between the University and the Irish government. It follows previous support from the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for a temporary lectureship in Irish history.  

The Professorship is named in recognition of Robert Erskine Childers and his son, Erskine Hamilton Childers, both alumni of Trinity College, Cambridge and significant figures in modern Irish history. Their lives reflect the complexity of Ireland’s relationship with Britain and the evolution of Irish statehood, making them fitting namesakes for this new post. 

The University has long attracted leading scholars of Irish history, and its Faculty of History is renowned for shaping historical scholarship through pioneering research and high-profile publications. With its international reputation for excellence in historical research and its ability to elevate specialist areas of study to global prominence, Cambridge is uniquely placed as the home for this Professorship. 

Professor Richard Bourke, Professor of the History of Political Thought and Fellow of King's College, said:

“This generous donation will have a transformative impact on the study of Irish history at the University of Cambridge and stimulate research both across the United Kingdom and globally, deepening academic contacts at all levels throughout these islands.” 

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Simon Harris TD, said:

“Cambridge has a distinguished tradition of research and teaching in Irish History. This work has played an important part in deepening understanding of the complex shared political, religious, social and economic histories of Ireland and Britain.   

“This new initiative will ensure that Irish history continues to be studied in one of the world’s leading universities, and that new research will help us better understand our shared history. It will be a permanent bridge between our two countries, connecting people and illuminating the unique relationships across these islands, north and south, east and west.  

“We have a shared responsibility to understand each other better, understand our past more clearly, and work together to build a better future. At times over the past decade, it has felt that such understanding has been missing from public debate. The Childers Chair will be an important and enduring contribution to that work.” 

The Childers Professorship will strengthen academic collaboration and exchange, ensuring that Irish history remains a vibrant area of research and public discussion. The role will provide long-term academic leadership in the field, support graduate students, and enhance research on Ireland’s historical and contemporary role in the world. 

Professor Lucy Delap, Head of the Faculty of History at Cambridge, welcomed the announcement:

“The Faculty of History has long been home to innovative research and teaching on Ireland, but hitherto we’ve never had the chance to appoint to a permanent post in the field. The foundation of the Childers Professorship will galvanise our work in this area and enable Cambridge to emerge as a world-leading centre for the study of Irish History.”