John Ellis PhD History

Hi, I'm John Ellis and I studied PhD History within Humanities at the University of Southampton.

I’m having to learn to express my research in a way which satisfies the demanding academic standards. But my supervisor is very supportive and I’m enjoying getting to grips with the subject. I would encourage anyone to consider taking a PhD in a subject that really interests them. It’s incredibly stimulating and very rewarding.

Studying for a PhD is the fulfilment of a lifetime’s ambition for John Ellis from Hampshire. After a career in the Royal Navy, he’s chosen to return to education to examine military intelligence during the first Civil War (1642-46).

He says: "Thirty years ago, my 'day job' included an insight into military intelligence and I became very interested in the history of the subject. I always hoped when I retired I’d have the time to investigate it properly – so here I am!"

John largely works online from home but aims to drop into the University around once a week to use the library and meet his supervisor.

He is now over halfway through a full-time doctorate; after it is completed he plans to use his knowledge to write authentic and accurate historic novels of the period. Although John achieved the equivalent of bachelors and masters degrees while in the services, he left formal education after school so has found some of the research and academic writing a little challenging.

He explains: "I’m having to learn to express my research in a way which satisfies the demanding academic standards. But my supervisor is very supportive and I’m enjoying getting to grips with the subject. I would encourage anyone who’s reached a senior position in any organisation to consider taking a PhD in a subject that really interests them. It’s incredibly stimulating and very rewarding."

John reached the rank of Captain while in the Navy and commanded the warships HMS Amazon and HMS Campbeltown. Now, he is looking forward to gaining the title of Doctor of History.