Research Associate

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the Department of Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy. This role is integral to an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded project titled 'Being Blue: An Examination of the Lived Experience of Minority Ethnic Police Officers'. The project employs an innovative, participant-led methodology to explore the experiences of minority ethnic police officers within policing and the police workplace.

As a Research Associate, you will collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator and the research team to collect and analyse qualitative data, contributing to the generation of new, co-produced knowledge. Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading specific research activities
• Maintaining regular communication with research participants and stakeholders
• Disseminating findings through academic publications and presentations at national conferences
• Engaging in knowledge exchange events
• Supporting the production of impact outputs, such as a short film and public exhibition

The ideal candidate will hold a relevant PhD or equivalent relevant experience and possess experience in qualitative research methods and analytical techniques. Experience in researching sensitive subject areas or working with marginalised communities is essential. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, along with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team. Familiarity with policing or experience in research related to the police is desirable. A track record of contributing to peer-reviewed journal papers or equivalent publications, as well as experience in communicating research to public and professional audiences, will be advantageous.

The University of Leicester prides itself on the diversity of its student population and on being an inclusive employer. We encourage applications from candidates who represent the diversity of our student population, local communities and wider society. In particular, we welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, as this is a staff group currently underrepresented in the University.

For informal enquiries, please contact Dr Claire Davis on claire.davis@leicester.ac.uk. We anticipate that interviews will take place on Tuesday 18 March 2025. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world. As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive. We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.