At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the GCCS team to explore Contextual Safeguarding through a Criminology lens.
- Company: Durham University, a leader in sociology and social sciences research.
- Benefits: Full-time position with opportunities for impactful research and collaboration.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on policy and practice transformation.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact by advancing criminology and safeguarding research.
- Qualifications: Passion for youth justice, health, and social change through interdisciplinary research.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Organisation/Company: Durham University.
Research field: Sociology; Ethics in social sciences.
Application Deadline: 29 Jun 2026 - 00:00 (UTC).
Country: United Kingdom.
Type of Contract: Other.
Job Status: Full-time.
EU funding: Not funded by a EU programme.
Related to Research Infrastructure staff: No.
The postholder will join the GCCS team to consider the wider application of Contextual Safeguarding and associated themes via a Criminology lens. Crucially, the postholder will bring together the fields of criminology and contextual safeguarding to advance this area of investigation and conduct research of real-world and applied significance. The overall programme of research will be shaped collaboratively upon appointment with the GCCS and the Criminology team.
We welcome applications from those with research interests in areas such as:
- youth justice
- health and justice
- hate and victimisation
- evidence-based policing
- organised crime
- child criminal exploitation
- crime and social harm
- crime and disability/neurodiversity
- transnational criminology
- criminology and race
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to interdisciplinary and applied research that is capable of informing policy, practice, and wider social change.
Responsibilities:
- Join the GCCS team to consider the wider application of Contextual Safeguarding and associated themes via a Criminology lens.
- Bring together criminology and contextual safeguarding to advance this area of investigation and conduct research of real-world and applied significance.
- Collaborate with the GCCS and the Criminology team to shape the overall programme of research.
Qualifications and Expectations:
- Interest in research areas such as youth justice, health and justice, hate and victimisation, evidence-based policing, organised crime, child criminal exploitation, crime and social harm, crime and disability/neurodiversity, transnational criminology, or criminology and race.
- Demonstrated commitment to interdisciplinary and applied research capable of informing policy, practice, and wider social change.
Postdoctoral Research Associate (Research Fellow in Criminology and Contextual Safeguarding) employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative research environment, particularly in the fields of criminology and contextual safeguarding. With a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research, employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities and a supportive work culture that values real-world impact and social change. Located in the vibrant city of Durham, staff enjoy a rich academic community and access to various resources that enhance their research capabilities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate (Research Fellow in Criminology and Contextual Safeguarding)
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We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate (Research Fellow in Criminology and Contextual Safeguarding)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Experience:In psychology, it’s crucial to highlight your relevant experience, such as internships, research projects, or any volunteer work in mental health settings. Make sure to include specific roles and responsibilities, demonstrating how you've applied theoretical knowledge in real-world situations—this is what gets us excited!
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:Given the nature of psychology, we want to see your academic journey laid out clearly. Include your degree(s), grades, and any specialised courses or certifications that set you apart. If you've got published papers or presentations at conferences, be sure to mention them—it shows your commitment to the field!
Personal Statement: Make It Count:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Share insights about why you’re passionate about psychology and how this role at Durham University connects with your career goals. Be honest about your motivations and what you hope to learn—this is key for a full-time position and helps us gauge your fit in our team!
Focus on Soft Skills in Your Application:Psychology is as much about people as it is about theories. Highlight your soft skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork in your application. These traits are essential in our field and will help us see how you connect with others, so don't hold back in showcasing them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Brush Up on Key Psychological Theories
Before stepping into the interview with Durham University, revisit key psychological theories that are relevant to the role, like cognitive behavioural therapy or humanistic psychology. Expect to discuss these during your interview, as they want to see how you apply theory to practice.
✨Bring Real-Life Case Studies
Prepare a couple of case studies or anecdotes that demonstrate your practical experience in psychology. Whether it’s handling a difficult client or designing a psychological assessment, these stories will highlight your skills and help you stand out in your full-time interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Ethical Guidelines
Get comfy with the ethical guidelines set by the British Psychological Society. Be ready to chat about how you ensure ethical practice in your work, as this is crucial in the psychology field, and Durham University will be keen to know you’ve got integrity.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Learning
Since you're going for a full-time gig, it’s essential to demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development. Bring up any workshops, courses, or readings you’ve engaged in recently. This shows Durham University that you’re not just there for a job, but genuinely passionate about the field.
