Peter Mackay

Peter Mackay is a Senior Lecturer in Literature at the University of St Andrews' School of English and a member of the Centre for the Critical Reimagining of Human Rights. An expert in Scottish and Irish literature from 1800 onwards with specialization in Scottish Gaelic literature, he hails from the Isle of Lewis and was appointed Scottish Makar in 2024.

His research focuses on Scottish Gaelic literary traditions, transgressive verse, and modern poetic influences, particularly examining cultural intersections in Gaelic poetry. Key contributions include monographs analyzing Heaney's relationship with Wordsworth and Sorley MacLean's work, alongside pioneering anthologies of Gaelic love poetry spanning 500 years.

Mackay's 81 research outputs demonstrate consistent engagement with Gaelic literary heritage through books, poetry collections, and critical editions. His work shows evolving emphasis on reclaiming marginalized voices in Scottish literature, with increasing focus on contemporary applications of traditional forms.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Duais Dhòmhnaill Meek (2016)
• Saltire Scottish Research Book of the Year (2017)
• Duais Ruaraidh MhicThòmais (2021)
• BBC/AHRC New Generation Thinker (2015)

With 217 recorded activities including BBC Radio 3 broadcasts and Radio nan Gàidheal appearances, Mackay maintains significant public engagement through festivals, lectures, and media contributions. His supervision of postgraduate researchers complements extensive collaborative work with Gaelic cultural institutions. Current projects center on his duties as Scottish Makar and ongoing exploration of Gaelic poetry's contemporary relevance.