At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct independent research and engage in teaching within a vibrant academic community.
- Company: Department of Sociology at the University of Oxford, known for its inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, academic mentorship, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to fostering an inclusive academic environment.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in sociology while collaborating with leading researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in Sociology or related field, with quantitative or qualitative research skills.
The predicted salary is between 65336 - 65336 £ per year.
The Department of Sociology seeks to appoint two Postdoctoral Research Fellows (PRFs) in Sociology, commencing in September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. One position is intended for a researcher with a primarily quantitative focus and the other with a primarily qualitative focus.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates whose work, or planned work, falls within the broad research interests of one or more members of the Department's faculty. Further information about faculty research areas can be found on the Department of Sociology webpage.
The fellowships are available for up to four years, until 30 September 2030. The key responsibilities of the PRFs are to:
- pursue independent scholarly research,
- apply for internal and external research funds,
- take part in the intellectual life of the Department,
- undertake a limited amount of teaching.
The nature and direction of the research will be wholly under the control of the Research Fellow, and the Department will appoint an academic mentor to provide support and advice. PRFs will be expected to play an active role in activities that support their integration into the life of the Department and the wider Oxford academic community. They will therefore be encouraged to organise and contribute to research events, including workshops and a seminar series.
The Department is committed to building a diverse and inclusive academic community. We particularly encourage applications from groups that are underrepresented in academic posts at the University of Oxford, including women, disabled people, and people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. Appointments will be made on the basis of personal merit and criteria relevant to the post only. Subject to statutory provisions, no applicant will be treated less favourably than another on grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Requests for further information about these posts should be addressed to the Head of Department, Colin Mills, at colin.mills@sociology.ox.ac.uk. Interviews are expected to take place in the week commencing 31st August 2026.
Salary (£): £49,119 - £58,265, with a discretionary range to £65,336 per annum (pro‑rata).
Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Oxford employer: Corehr
The Department of Sociology at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional environment for Postdoctoral Research Fellows, fostering a vibrant academic culture that encourages independent research and collaboration. With access to extensive resources, mentorship from esteemed faculty, and opportunities to engage in diverse scholarly activities, this role not only supports professional growth but also contributes to a commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the academic community. Located in the historic city of Oxford, the department provides a unique backdrop for innovative research and meaningful engagement with a global network of scholars.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Oxford
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
Have you worked on any cool research projects? Make it easy for potential employers to see your work by creating a portfolio or a personal website. This way, when you apply for roles like the one at Corehr, you can point them to your projects and publications, showcasing your expertise directly.
✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
Don’t just rely on job boards! Keep an eye on the careers section of the websites of companies like Corehr. Apply directly through their website because sometimes they post jobs there before anywhere else. Plus, it shows your proactive approach!
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at Corehr. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at Corehr. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at Corehr. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at Corehr to drive research projects forward.
