Mr James Johnson

James is originally from Bangor, Gwynedd, and gained his BA(Hons) in Ancient History and Archaeology at the University of Liverpool in 2011, with a dissertation on Welsh graveyard culture. His MRes in Archaeological Studies at the University of York in 2013 was written on railway architecture and engineering, a lifelong passion. Following this he worked in the Operations department of Snowdon Mountain Railway, revitalising their museum and helping keep a fleet of 120 year-old steam locomotives running. Prior to starting doctoral studies, James worked in a number of roles including as a full-time railway journalist, a heritage outreach officer, a heritage events organiser, and as a museums and heritage education facilitator. He is currently also a digital content creator and part-time online history tutor alongside his doctoral research work.

Gravestones and memorial culture, particularly in the Celtic languages

Medieval fashion and textiles, especially textile production and technical aspects of its use.

Railway history and industrial archaeology, in particular innovations in engineering, architecture, and infrastructure.

Early medieval material culture, including jewellery, architecture, and written materials.