Jesse Richard Edwards

Professor Jesse Richard Edwards serves as Head of the Department of English at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU). He holds a BA from University College London, an MA from the University of Sussex, and a PhD from the University of Sussex's School of English and American Studies (1997). His career includes roles as Lecturer (1999-2004) and Senior Lecturer (2004-2011) before becoming Department Head in 2011.

• Education: BA English (UCL), MA Anglo-American Literary Relations (Sussex), PhD (Sussex)

Research focuses on intersections between literature and geography, spanning early modern cartography (John Locke, Thomas Hobbes, Daniel Defoe) to contemporary travel writing and poetry’s role in public policy. Notable projects include co-founding Manchester City of Literature (UNESCO designation 2017) and establishing the Manchester Poetry Library, a UK-first public poetry library within a university.

His work bridges academia and public engagement, influencing landscape policy, cultural tourism, and educational initiatives. Collaborations include projects with the University of Manchester and Manchester City Council.