Three Queen Mary University of London academics have been recognised as leading researchers in their fields, receiving one of the most coveted awards in the UK academic landscape—the Philip Leverhulme Prize. Dr. Nivi Manchanda, Reader in International Politics from the School of Politics and International Relations, and Dr. Sasha Litvintseva and Dr. Mario Slugan, Senior Lecturers in Film from the School of the Arts, are among the 2024 winners.
Awarded by the Leverhulme Trust, the Philip Leverhulme Prize recognises outstanding researchers whose work has gained international recognition and whose future careers hold exceptional promise. Each prize is worth £100,000 and may be used to further the recipient’s research, providing them with the resources and opportunities to expand their projects and increase their impact.
Dr. Nivi Manchanda’s work focuses on the politics of knowledge production, empire and colonialism, race and racism, queer theory, and borders. Commenting on her award, Dr. Manchanda said:"It is an honour to be recognised by the Leverhulme Trust for my work. This award provides a vital opportunity to expand my research into the politics of imperial knowledge production and its material consequences. I look forward to continuing to engage with questions of race, capitalism, and borders in new and innovative ways."
Dr. Sasha Litvintseva’s research in artist moving image and film theory intersects with environmental humanities and the history and philosophy of science. Speaking about the prize, Dr. Litvintseva said:"I am really grateful to receive the Philip Leverhulme Prize. It is a tremendous encouragement for my work and will enable me to continue engaging with the ways moving images can offer unique perspectives on complex scientific and philosophical questions, as well as to further explore the formal possibilities of the film medium."
Dr. Mario Slugan specializes in early cinema and film theory, offering new perspectives on the evolution of film as both an art form and a cultural product. Reflecting on his win, Dr. Slugan commented:"I am deeply honored by this recognition. The Philip Leverhulme Prize will enable me to deepen my exploration of early cinema and its enduring impact on contemporary film theory. I hope my work will continue to contribute to a broader understanding of film as a historical and cultural force."
Chosen from over 350 nominations across six subject areas—Classics, Earth Sciences, Physics, Politics and International Relations, Psychology, and Visual and Performing Arts—the Philip Leverhulme Prizes are awarded to exceptional researchers whose work is already making a significant impact.
Queen Mary University of London continues to demonstrate its commitment to nurturing groundbreaking research, as the achievements of Dr. Manchanda, Dr. Litvintseva, and Dr. Slugan further strengthen the university’s global standing as a hub for innovative research.
For more information on the Philip Leverhulme Prize, visit the Leverhulme Trust website.
For media information, contact: