Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team researching vulnerability-based policing and sex worker safety.
- Company: The University of York's School for Business and Society is a leading academic unit.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on research experience and collaborate with police forces for social impact.
- Why this job: Make a difference in policing practices while working with experts in the field.
- Qualifications: PhD in Social Sciences or equivalent experience required; strong research skills essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence national police guidelines launching in April 2025.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
The School for Business and Society is the largest academic unit at the University of York. This innovative merger between the York Management School and Social Policy and Social Work Department brings together the work of almost 300 academic and professional support staff. SBS wishes to recruit a Research Associate with excellent qualitative research skills and experience of conducting independent and collaborative research. This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a small team working on vulnerability-based policing as it relates to sex worker safety and justice.
Following on from a research project evaluating the role of police Sex Work Liaison Officers (SWLOs), this project will extend the use of evidence-based best practice approaches in SWLO roles, working with police forces to implement SWLO roles in ways that are orientated carefully around the needs of sex workers in contexts of criminalisation. Working in partnership with the National Police Chief's Council (NPCC) and police forces, the project will support forces to operate in line with our co-produced SWLO role descriptor developed from the research findings with sex workers, the NPCC and leading SWLOs. This project capitalises on unique opportunities for impact with new NPCC Guidance on Sex Work featuring SWLOs as the gold standard being launched April 2025. The work is affiliated with the ESRC Vulnerability and Policing Futures Research Centre and funded by an ESRC Impact Acceleration Account.
Role
You will be working with Professor Kate Brown, Professor Sharon Grace and Dr Rosie Campbell to support this impact and knowledge exchange project which aims to work with adopter forces (those with SWLOs), to spread best practice to other forces; to help other forces develop such roles; and to promote the use of SWLOs in line with evidence based practice. You will facilitate the key coordination, partner engagement and research support for the project. Specifically you will:
- Conduct follow-up conversations with police forces around our recent Freedom of Information work.
- Collate updated scoping of force practice and plans.
- Establish a network of best practice SWLO forces/key contacts.
- Organise a series of group meetings with police forces to share/advance best practice in SWLO roles.
- Track and capture evidence of changes in police, practice and attitudes.
- Offer bespoke support for developer forces, especially in evidencing need/benefits.
- Facilitate knowledge exchange between forces on business cases.
- Conduct research under the supervision of senior colleagues and contribute to the production of research.
- Assist in the identification and development of potential areas of research and the development of proposals for independent or collaborative research projects.
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
You will have:
- A PhD in the Social Sciences (or nearing completion) or equivalent experience.
- Relevant knowledge to be able to engage in high quality research.
- Knowledge of a range of social science research techniques and methodologies.
- Highly developed communication skills to engage effectively with a wide range of audiences, both orally and in writing, using a range of media.
- Ability to work as part of a team and also to work independently using your own initiative.
- A collaborative ethos.
Interview date: To be confirmed
For informal enquiries: please contact Professor Kate Brown at kate.brown@york.ac.uk
Research Associate: Vulnerability and Policing employer: University of York
Contact Detail:
University of York Recruiting Team
kate.brown@york.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate: Vulnerability and Policing
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest research and developments in vulnerability-based policing, especially regarding sex worker safety. This will not only enhance your understanding but also allow you to engage in informed discussions during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of social sciences and policing. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet potential colleagues and learn more about the current challenges and best practices in SWLO roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research experiences in detail, particularly any qualitative research you've conducted. Be ready to explain how these experiences have equipped you to contribute to the project effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your collaborative skills by thinking of examples where you've successfully worked in a team. Highlight your ability to engage with diverse stakeholders, as this role requires effective communication with various police forces and community members.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate: Vulnerability and Policing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Research Associate position. Familiarise yourself with the project details, especially regarding vulnerability-based policing and the role of Sex Work Liaison Officers.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your qualitative research skills and any relevant experience in social sciences. Make sure to include specific examples of independent and collaborative research projects you've worked on, particularly those related to policing or social work.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the project and how your background aligns with the goals of the research team. Discuss your communication skills and ability to engage with diverse audiences, as these are crucial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your documents are clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and commitment to quality.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of York
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be prepared to discuss your qualitative research experience in detail. Highlight specific projects you've worked on, the methodologies you used, and the outcomes of your research. This will demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively to the role.
✨Understand Vulnerability-Based Policing
Familiarise yourself with the concepts of vulnerability-based policing and the role of Sex Work Liaison Officers (SWLOs). Being able to articulate your understanding of these topics will show your genuine interest in the project and its impact on sex worker safety.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Since the role involves working closely with police forces and other stakeholders, think of examples from your past where you successfully collaborated on research projects. Be ready to discuss how you can facilitate knowledge exchange and best practices among different forces.
✨Engage with Current Issues
Stay updated on current discussions and policies related to sex work and policing. Being knowledgeable about recent developments will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during the interview and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
