At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct research on border security and engage with stakeholders in Denmark and the UK.
- Company: Join a leading academic team at the University of Sheffield and collaborate with top researchers.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic research environment with excellent networking and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical issues in border security and migration studies.
- Qualifications: PhD or nearing completion in social sciences, fluent in Danish and English.
The predicted salary is between 38784 - 41064 € per year.
We are seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate (postdoc) to work on the ESRC funded ‘The Business of Bordering’ research project. The postholder will work under the supervision of Dr. Lucy Mayblin (University of Sheffield), in collaboration with Dr. Joe Turner (University of York) and Dr. Martin Lemberg‑Pedersen (University of Southern Denmark). The project focuses on the UK and Denmark, exploring how states experiment with, propagate, and normalise private border security businesses.
Responsibilities
- Read and review relevant literature.
- Build and maintain a dataset of border security contracts in the Danish context.
- Conduct desk‑based policy analysis and stakeholder mapping in Danish and English.
- Undertake qualitative field research, including elite interviews and observations at border security sector events.
- Attend and present at academic seminars, workshops, and conferences.
- Assist in writing the project website/blog, newsletters, reports, and scholarly publications.
- Contribute to conference presentations, practitioner workshops, and research advisory group meetings, and assist in running them.
- Perform other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Qualifications – Essential
- PhD (or close to completion) in a relevant social science or humanities discipline or equivalent experience.
- Fluency in Danish language.
- Familiarity with Danish borders and immigration systems and other relevant policy areas.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in both Danish and English.
- Excellent time‑management skills.
- Ability to work independently.
- Familiarity with relevant research areas (critical border and migration studies, political economy, outsourcing, the arms trade, security technologies).
- Experience with financial data, e.g., using financial investigative journalism techniques or other relevant approaches.
Qualifications – Desirable
- Experience with stakeholder mapping.
- Experience with policy discourse analysis.
For informal enquiries, please contact Lucy Mayblin, Senior Lecturer, Sociology at l.mayblin@sheffield.ac.uk. The selection process will take place on 30th June 2026 and may include an interview and presentation. Candidates will be informed of progression to the selection stage during the week commencing 15th June. For any required support, adjustments, or equipment to participate in the recruitment process, please contact spr-hr-staffing@sheffield.ac.uk. We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job, you will be invited to participate in the next stage of the selection process.
Research Associate - The Business of Bordering in Sheffield employer: Dunhillmedical
As a leading institution in socio-political research, we offer a dynamic and inclusive work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. Our commitment to employee development is evident through opportunities for professional growth, participation in academic seminars, and engagement with international research networks. Located in the vibrant city of Sheffield, our hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility while being part of a supportive community dedicated to impactful research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate - The Business of Bordering in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the project. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the project’s themes. Brush up on your knowledge of border security and related policies. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but a passionate expert!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview or networking event, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate - The Business of Bordering in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in social sciences, especially anything related to border security or policy analysis. We want to see how your background fits with our project!
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your excellent written and oral communication skills in both Danish and English. This is crucial for the role, so give us examples of how you've used these skills in past experiences.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dunhillmedical
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the specifics of 'The Business of Bordering' project. Familiarise yourself with the key themes, such as private border security and its implications. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Brush Up on Danish Policies
Since fluency in Danish and familiarity with Danish borders and immigration systems are essential, make sure you can discuss relevant policies confidently. Prepare examples of how these policies impact border security and be ready to share your insights.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As excellent written and oral communication skills are crucial, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a related topic to demonstrate your ability to convey complex ideas effectively, both in Danish and English.
✨Prepare for Qualitative Research Questions
Expect questions about your experience with qualitative field research and stakeholder mapping. Think of specific examples from your past work that highlight your skills in conducting interviews and observations, and be ready to discuss your approach to data analysis.
