Clare Lees

Professor Clare Lees is a leading scholar in Medieval Literature and Director of the Institute of English Studies at the University of London's School of Advanced Study. She also serves as Vice Dean of the School of Advanced Study. Her research focuses on early medieval British and Irish literatures, gender studies, and the intersection of medieval culture with contemporary arts. She has held a Leverhulme Major Research Fellowship (2016–2018) and co-founded the London Arts and Humanities Partnership (LAHP).

Her academic career includes over two decades as a Professor at King's College London and supervision of over 20 PhD students. She collaborates widely, notably with Gillian R. Overing, and has contributed to BBC documentaries and public engagements like the Newcastle Poetry Festival. Awards include Fellowships from the English Association and King’s College London.

Lees’ research explores how modern artists and writers reinterpret early medieval themes, as seen in her edited volumes and monographs. Her work bridges historical analysis with contemporary cultural practices, emphasizing transdisciplinary dialogue. She actively mentors early-career researchers and serves on national and international academic boards, including roles in REF2014 and REF2021.