A Hidden Migration History: South Asian Medical Professionals in Scotland 1872-2022
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Strathclyde
Department Name: History
Abstract
There is little to no existing research on the history of South Asian doctors in Scotland. This research proposal emerges from a partnership between the AHRC EDI Leadership Fellow project 'EDI in Scottish Heritage' (2021-2022) and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow (RCPSG) which uncovered the records of the first South Asian licentiates at the college in 1872 (see https://heritageblog.rcpsg.ac.uk/2022/08/05/a-history-of-the-first-south-asian-licentiates/). The short heritage placement that uncovered this information formed the basis of a public event and a blog. Feedback from the public event (primarily attended by medical professionals) asked for more information about the history of South Asian doctors in Scotland. This proposal is a direct response to the desire for more information to help raise awareness of the breadth and depth of South Asian life and history in Scotland.
The purpose of this project is to address a gap in knowledge about the history and significance of South Asian doctors and medical professionals in Scotland. The research will be guided by five key questions:
1. What were the experiences of South Asian medical students and professionals in Scotland and how did these change over time?
2. What were the connections between British Indian medical institutions and Scottish educational and licensing organisations such as the RCPSG?
3. What were the specific ties between Scottish medical institutions and the British Empire in India?
4. What role did medical networks play in the experiences of South Asian medical professionals?
5. How does the early history of South Asian licentiates inform contemporary social issues connected to South Asian students and migrants in Scotland?
The purpose of this project is to address a gap in knowledge about the history and significance of South Asian doctors and medical professionals in Scotland. The research will be guided by five key questions:
1. What were the experiences of South Asian medical students and professionals in Scotland and how did these change over time?
2. What were the connections between British Indian medical institutions and Scottish educational and licensing organisations such as the RCPSG?
3. What were the specific ties between Scottish medical institutions and the British Empire in India?
4. What role did medical networks play in the experiences of South Asian medical professionals?
5. How does the early history of South Asian licentiates inform contemporary social issues connected to South Asian students and migrants in Scotland?
