Jan Haywood

Dr Jan Haywood is an Associate Professor of Ancient History at the University of Leicester, serving as Director of Research, Enterprise & Impact in the School of Archaeology and Ancient History. Previously, she held roles including Teaching Fellow at Leicester (2014-2017), Lecturer at The Open University (2017-2021), and J.P. Postgate University Teacher in Classics at Liverpool (2013). Her research focuses on classical Greek historiography, divination practices in ancient Greece, and the modern reception of classical antiquity, particularly through Herodotus and Xenophon. She co-founded the Herodotus Helpline (2020) to promote his works and the peer-reviewed journal Syllogos (focused on Herodotus’ Histories). In 2023, she was elected Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries.

Education and Career:

• PhD or equivalent qualifications not explicitly listed, but extensive academic roles indicate advanced training in Classics/Ancient History.
• Professional trajectory includes teaching-focused roles before transitioning to research-focused positions.

Research Interests:

• Historiographical methods in Herodotus and Xenophon.
• Rhetorical use of divination (dreams, oracles) in political/social contexts.
• Modern adaptations of classical texts (e.g., Alice Oswald’s Memorial).
• Public engagement through schools talks and the Herodotus Helpline.

Awards and Grants:

• Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries (2023).
• Leadership in REF2029 preparations at Leicester.

Publications and Projects:

• Author of book reviews and articles on Herodotus, Xenophon, and classical reception.
• Co-founder of Syllogos journal and Herodotus Helpline charity.