（日本語のウェブサイトはこちらから）
Profile
I am Masahiro Katoh, a Professor at the Faculty of Human Studies, Meijo University, Japan. I hold a Ph.D. and a Master’s degree in Modern British History from Ritsumeikan University, and an MSc in Media Research from the University of Stirling. My work bridges History and Media Studies, with recent interests in Cultural Studies.
In 2025, I have the opportunity to return to Stirling as an Academic Visitor at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, coordinated by Professor Richard Haynes.
Understanding that Japanese names may be complex for those from other countries, I welcome being addressed as ‘Masa’.
Academic Focus and Teaching
My academic focus spans cultural studies and contemporary Scottish history, particularly investigating the relationship between representations and discourses of Scottish national identity and international diaspora.
At Meijo University, I am dedicated to teaching undergraduates and conducting extensive research. My research focuses on Scottish Studies, exploring themes of nationalism, multiculturalism and racial equality, emphasising the influence of popular culture and alternative media.
Recent Research Topics
- Scottish National Identities and Popular Culture
- Scottish Diaspora and National Identities
- Scottish Nationalism and Alternative Media
- Podcasting Culture in Japan and Scotland
Funding
- JSPS KAKENHI Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C), Grant Number 25K04405 (2025-2029), “Diaspora and Nationalism in Modern Scotland: Representations of Migrant Experiences in Popular and Digital Culture”, Principal Investigator
- JSPS KAKENHI Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B), Grant Number 25K00490 (2025-2028), Co-Investigator
Educational Background
My journey into contemporary Scottish history began during my undergraduate studies, fueled by a passion for British and Scottish films, music, and sports. This interest coincided with the ‘Cool Britannia’ cultural movement during the New Labour era. My academic path led me to explore contemporary Scottish issues through the lenses of history, sociology, and cultural studies. I further enriched my expertise with a year at the Media Research Institute at the University of Stirling and completed my Ph.D. at Ritsumeikan University in Japan.
Membership
- Japan Association for Scottish Studies
- Association for Cultural Typhoon (Cultural Studies)
- Japan Association for Media, Journalism and Communication Studies
- Japanese Society of Western History
- Japan-Scotland Society
Academic Experience
- Professor at Meijo University, 2025-present
- Academic Visitor at the University of Stirling, 2025
- Visiting Researcher at Ritsumeikan University, 2015-present
- Associate Professor at Meijo University, 2019-2024
- Assistant Professor at Meijo University, 2015-2019
- Assistant Professor at Ritsumeikan University (Courses: Basic Reading, Graduation Thesis Seminar, et al), 2013-2016
- Part-time Lecturer at Ritsumeikan University (Courses: Digital Media Production Practice, Information Literacy, et al), 2011-2012
- Part-time Lecturer at Ryukoku University (Course: Mass Media Theory, 2010-2011
- Part-time Lecturer at Kogakkan University (Course: World History), 2009-2012
Personal Insights
I consider myself to have three hometowns. I was born in Nagoya, Japan’s third-largest city, nestled between Tokyo and Osaka. I spent two formative decades in Kyoto and a year in Stirling, Scotland, which collectively shaped my academic perspective.
Interests Outside Academia
Beyond academia, I am an avid cyclist, maintaining five bikes for various purposes. I also enjoy running, driving, and following professional cycling and motor racing. Cooking is another passion of mine, particularly experimenting with recipes from Jamie Oliver’s cookbooks. Music is also a passion of mine; I play various instruments and enjoy listening to a wide range of genres.
During my stay in Scotland, I was exposed to the burgeoning podcast scene and have been actively involved in podcasting since 2008, producing several shows across various topics and formats.
Contact
Feel free to send an email to katoh.meijo＠gmail.com, or see Japanese Page