Dr Hiroki Shin

An intellectually stimulating and supportive environment

Dr Hiriko Shin is an Associate Professor in History of Energy and Environmental Humanities, and is one of our 125^th Anniversary Fellows. Hiroki's research interests include the history of modern energy, financial and transportation systems, and the ways that institutions respond to climate change. 

We sat down with Hiroki to discuss his time at the University so far. 

What are your research areas of interest?

I am a historian of energy and the environment, interested in how culture and energy issues intersect in modern society. One of my research projects, for example, explores how cultural institutions such as museums and heritage sites can contribute to societal decarbonisation by shaping public understanding of energy. I work closely with practitioners in the heritage sector to develop culturally informed responses to climate change. My ambition is to establish a “public history of energy” that opens the field to broader audiences through new modes of communication and engagement. 

What impact do you hope your research will have?

I aim to reshape how we understand the relationship between society and energy resources. As intensive energy use is no longer viewed as an unquestioned good, we need to rethink the entire energy system and its purpose. Long-term historical perspectives are invaluable in informing decisions about energy transition, as this will be a lengthy process with profound implications for how we live. By connecting historical research with policymaking, businesses, and communities, I hope to make history central to building sustainable futures.

What did you find appealing about the 125^th Anniversary Fellows and Chairs scheme?

The 125^th Anniversary Fellows and Chairs initiative is a University-wide scheme that encourages cross-disciplinary work. Although I am based in the School of History and Cultures, the fellowship has enabled me to collaborate with colleagues in engineering, geology and business studies, greatly enriching my research. The institutional support, together with research centres such as the Birmingham Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action (BISCA) and the Birmingham Energy Institute, has significantly expanded my ambition and capacity to deliver interdisciplinary projects, while strengthening my place within the University community. 

What was your experience like joining the University?

Settling into a new institution brings its own challenges, but overall the process has been rewarding and smooth. While I am still learning the details of administrative systems—and occasionally finding myself lost on campus—colleagues have been generous with their guidance. More importantly, I have found the University an intellectually stimulating and supportive environment. This has made my first year both enjoyable and productive, and has given me a strong foundation for developing my research and teaching at Birmingham. 

How did you find the move to the West Midlands?

Having lived in the West Country for over a decade, the West Midlands already felt relatively familiar to me. I did not relocate, but I now commute regularly to Birmingham, which has allowed me to experience the city in new ways. Birmingham’s excellent transport connections make travel convenient both within the region and further afield. 

What is your favourite thing about Birmingham? 

As a historian, I am particularly drawn to Centenary Square, with its striking combination of the Library of Birmingham, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, and surrounding modern architecture. It represents the city’s rich blend of past and present. On colleagues’ advice, I also visited Digbeth, a redeveloped industrial district that is now a lively cultural area. Its mix of creative spaces, small shops, and reminders of industrial heritage makes it both historically interesting and an enjoyable place to spend time.