At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct original research on Global China and contribute to innovative digital outputs.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Department of Politics and International Relations.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and generous family leave schemes.
- Other info: Collaborate with an international network of scholars in a vibrant academic community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a rapidly growing research initiative with global significance.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and a developing research profile in Global China.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
The Department of Politics and International Relations (DPIR) is one of Oxford’s largest and most internationally recognised departments, home to around 90 academic staff and a thriving community of researchers and visitors. Ranked the Number One University in the UK for Politics by The Guardian in 2024, the department delivers world‑class teaching and research supported by experienced Professional Services teams working across Courses, Research, Finance, HR and Communications. We are strongly committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, including work towards an Athena Swan Bronze Award, and are based in the Social Sciences Building on Manor Road alongside Economics, Criminology, Socio‑Legal Studies and the Social Science Library.
Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing and additional leave after long service.
- One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full‑pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full‑pay paternity/partner leave.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the Mapping Global China initiative at the Department of Politics and International Relations. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr Maria Adele Carrai, Associate Professor in the Politics and International Relations of China. This position offers an exceptional opportunity for an early-career scholar to contribute to a rapidly growing research platform dedicated to advancing new empirical and conceptual approaches to Global China. You will contribute to both the intellectual development of the project and its collaborative research infrastructure, working within an international network of scholars and contributing to innovative digital and visual research outputs.
You will conduct original research on Global China, contribute to collaborative outputs such as datasets, research briefs, and publications and support the development of digital and visual research materials. Additionally, you will work closely with project collaborators to expand and refine the Mapping Global China research platform. Furthermore, you will support the development of digital and visual research outputs, including maps, datasets, and analytical visualizations and collaborate to expand on the Mapping Global China research platform.
You must hold or be close to completion of a PhD in International Relations, Political Science, China Studies, Geography, Development Studies, or a related field and have a developing research profile in Global China, broadly defined alongside evidence of high-quality research and publication potential. This position is full-time and fixed-term for 10 months and available from 1 September 2026.
If you have any questions about the role, please contact the DPIR HR Team at vacancies@politics.ox.ac.uk. All enquiries will be treated in strict confidence and will not form part of the selection decision. Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via the University’s job pages. You will be required to upload a recent CV and supporting statement as part of your online application. Only applications received before 12 noon (UK time) on Friday 19 June 2026 can be considered. Please quote reference 186580 in all correspondence.
Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Mapping Global China Initiative in Oxford employer: Corehr
The University of Oxford's Department of Politics and International Relations is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing with generous leave policies and flexible working arrangements. As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will be part of a prestigious institution renowned for its world-class research and teaching, with ample opportunities for professional growth and collaboration within an international network of scholars dedicated to advancing the understanding of Global China.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Mapping Global China Initiative in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your academic contacts and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to unexpected openings, so don’t be shy!
✨Tip Number 2
Get involved in relevant online communities or forums. Engaging with others in your field can help you stay updated on job openings and trends, plus it’s a great way to showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the department and its projects. Knowing the ins and outs of the Mapping Global China initiative will show your genuine interest and help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Mapping Global China Initiative in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your academic achievements, research experience, and any relevant publications. Tailor it to showcase how your background aligns with the Mapping Global China initiative.
Write a Strong Supporting Statement:This is your chance to shine! Use your supporting statement to explain why you're passionate about Global China research and how you can contribute to the project. Be specific about your skills and experiences that make you a great fit.
Follow the Application Guidelines:Make sure you stick to the application process outlined in the job description. Upload your CV and supporting statement through our website before the deadline. We want to see your application in the right format!
Ask Questions if You're Unsure:If you have any queries about the role or application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to the DPIR HR Team. They’re there to help, and it shows initiative on your part. Just remember to keep it professional!
How to prepare for a job interview at Corehr
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and how it relates to Global China. Be prepared to discuss your findings, methodologies, and how they can contribute to the Mapping Global China initiative. This shows your passion and expertise!
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Department
Take some time to learn about the Department of Politics and International Relations at Oxford. Understand their key projects, values, and recent publications. This will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the role, the team, and the future of the Mapping Global China initiative. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with project collaborators, be ready to share examples of past teamwork experiences. Highlight how you’ve contributed to collaborative outputs and how you can bring that spirit to the Mapping Global China research platform.
