Our People & Our Partners

Dr. Nicholas Barnett, Joint Chair

Dr Nicholas Barnett has been a Lecturer in Contemporary History and Politics at University of Salford since 2019. His research focus is on cultural history of the Twentieth Century with specialisms in the Cold War, and encounters between populations. His books include Britain’s Cold War: Culture, Modernity and the Soviet Threat (2018) & Cultural Encounters in the Age of Globalism (2024). Barnett’s interest in class and the structures created by class in society stems from his interest in cultural history, and the role that class has played in determining people’s life outcomes.

Dr. Tanja Poppelreuter, Joint Chair

Dr. Tanja Popplereuter is a Reader in Architectural Humanities at the University of Salford, Manchester. Her research interests lie in the field of 20^th-century art and architecture with a focus on the perceptions and development of architectural space, social housing, and women in 20^th-century architecture.
She led the project “The Modern Backdrop” funded by the Paul Mellon Centre. Tanja also is a member of the Strategic Planning Committee of the US-based Society of Architectural Historians (SAH) and of the Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) group of the RIBA North West.

Dr. Emma Barnes, Research Network Manager

Dr. Emma Barnes is the Research Network Manager for the Innovation Network on Cultures of Class. Emma has previously worked as a Knowledge Exchange Fellow, Lecturer in Nineteenth-Century World Literatures, and Research Assistant within the School of Arts, Media and Creative Technology at the University of Salford. Emma has also worked within the Arts and Cultural sector, including at BEYOND Studio Ltd and Company Chameleon. Her research interests include Indigenous and Postcolonial Literatures, and Public and Community Engagement through Arts and Culture.

Working Class Movement Library

The Working Class Movement Library is an independent library and archive. We care for and give access to our library and archive collection that covers 200 years of working class history. The library was founded in the 1950s by Edmund and Ruth Frow. Both trade unionists, Eddie was an engineer and Ruth a teacher. Their passion for activism and working class history laid the foundation for our archive. They lived in their semi-detached home in Manchester for most of their life. It was packed floor to ceiling with books and attracted visitors from all over the country. In 1971 the library became a charitable trust and in 1987 we moved into our current home, Grade II listed Jubilee House in Salford. The library supports research, organising and community projects and provides a meeting space for activist and community groups. We offer tours, events and exhibitions and continue to develop our collection.

Salford Museum and Art Gallery

Salford Museum and Art Gallery, in Peel Park, Salford, Greater Manchester, opened to the public in November 1850 as the Royal Museum and Public Library. Its Local History Library was the UK’s first unconditionally free public lending library. Today, Salford Museum and Art Gallery is known for Lark Hill Place, its recreated Victorian street, permanent displays of Victorian art, and a diverse temporary exhibition programme, showcasing Salford’s museum collections and local, national and international artists and creatives, supported by lively public and educational programmes.

The Modernist Society

the modernist is a Manchester-based independent publisher, specialist bookshop, gallery, and cultural organisation dedicated to twentieth-century architecture and design. Founded in 2009 by Jack Hale and Maureen Ward and joined shortly after by Eddy Rhead, as part of The Modernist Society — a not-for-profit Community Interest Company — it has grown into one of the UK’s most distinctive voices celebrating modernist and post-war built culture, typography, graphics, and design history.

Lowry

Lowry, a cultural beacon situated on the vibrant Salford Quays waterfront in Greater Manchester. Renowned for its striking modern architecture and commitment to the arts, Lowry is a dynamic space that seamlessly blends contemporary performance with artistic innovation. As you step inside, you’ll discover a diverse array of events, from compelling theatre productions and dance performances to thought-provoking exhibitions in the galleries. This iconic venue hosts both established artists and emerging talents, providing a stage for creativity to flourish. Lowry’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement ensures that its events appeal to a broad audience, making it a cultural destination where everyone can experience the transformative power of the arts.

Gallery Oldham

A place for people and ideas. Changing exhibitions of art, natural history and social history.
Oldham’s first museum and art gallery opened in August 1883. Originally known as Oldham Free Library, Art Gallery and Museum, the opening exhibition relied on loans from a wide range of individuals, and the newly formed institution also began collecting from the outset. We have been displaying a range of artworks, natural history specimens and social history objects ever since.
In 2002 the new Gallery Oldham building was opened. It remains connected via a bridge to our original home. Today you can cross the bridge to get a sense of the grandeur of the 1883 gallery spaces following a restoration project that was completed in 2025.

Loaves & Fishes runs two centres in Salford: a Drop-in Centre and a Skills for Life Centre, providing a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental environment for anyone who needs support.
With an open-door policy, Loaves & Fishes supports people experiencing homelessness, those at risk of homelessness, and individuals who may be vulnerable, isolated, struggling financially or facing other challenges in their lives.
Their services go beyond meeting immediate needs. Loaves & Fishes provide hot, nutritious food, practical and emotional support, and direct access to specialist partner organisations on-site, helping people get the right support at the right time.
Through our Skills for Life Centre, they also provide activities, training and opportunities that help people build confidence, independence, practical skills, and employability, supporting them to take positive steps towards a more secure and sustainable future.