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- Tasks: Join a groundbreaking research project exploring music's impact on economic decisions in Vietnam.
- Company: University of Birmingham, committed to diversity and innovative research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and potential for contract extension.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by blending economics and music in a unique research setting.
- Qualifications: PhD or near completion in Economics or related field; strong analytical skills required.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive environment for career growth.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 42000 £ per year.
Due to limited funding for this vacancy, the maximum salary available is at Grade 7 SP 33 (£42,254). The final salary offered will depend on individual circumstances.
Hours: Full Time
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract from 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2028 with the possibility of an extension of up to six months.
The University of Birmingham invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship on the research project SoundDecisions: Musical Listening, Decision Making, and Equitable Development in the Mekong Delta. Led by Professor Alexander M. Cannon, SoundDecisions evaluates how farmer‑musicians in the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam listen to their environments and one another to cultivate choice, experiment with new ideas, and build trust through music performance.
For this postdoctoral fellowship, we seek an economist or economic geographer to contribute to the design and testing of a robust and innovative methodological framework to investigate how musical thinking influences the economic decisions of farmer‑musicians in the Mekong Delta.
Role Summary
- Work closely with the Principal Investigator and partners to undertake research on the SoundDecisions project.
- Use their understanding of qualitative and quantitative methods to contribute to the planning, design and the delivery of the research project.
- Conduct desk research on the latest research related to the project.
- Play a key role in collecting and analysing data and writing project outputs.
- Help to organise and participate in project meetings and dissemination activities.
Person specification
- A PhD or near completion in Economics, Economic Geography or a related field. If near completion, final submission of a PhD must take place before 1st of July 2026.
- High level analytical capability.
- Ability to communicate complex information clearly.
- Fluency in relevant qualitative and quantitative models, techniques or methods and ability to contribute to developing new ones.
- Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively.
- Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes.
- Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project.
- Co‑ordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort.
- Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day‑to‑day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly.
Desirable specifications
- Preferably, some knowledge of the Vietnamese or Khmer languages.
- Preferably, some knowledge of music and music performance.
Informal enquiries can be made to Professor Alexander Cannon at sounddecisions@contacts.bham.ac.uk. To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.
Valuing excellence, sustaining investment. We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.
Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) in Birmingham employer: Economicsnetwork
Contact Detail:
Economicsnetwork Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in academia or related fields. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the project and the team. Show genuine interest in SoundDecisions and how your skills can contribute to its success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your research ideas or findings, so being clear and confident is key.
✨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 take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the Research Fellow position. We want to see how you can contribute to the SoundDecisions project, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this role involves both qualitative and quantitative methods, be sure to emphasise your analytical capabilities and any relevant research experience. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know what you’ve done!
Communicate Clearly: Your ability to communicate complex information is key in this role. Use clear and concise language in your application to demonstrate that you can convey intricate ideas effectively. Remember, we want to understand your thought process!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about us and what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Economicsnetwork
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you thoroughly understand the SoundDecisions project and its objectives. Familiarise yourself with the methodologies mentioned in the job description, especially qualitative and quantitative methods, as you'll need to discuss how your skills align with these.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare examples of your previous research that highlight your analytical capabilities. Be ready to explain how you've used different models or techniques in your work, and how you can contribute to developing new ones for this project.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice explaining complex information in a straightforward manner. Since the role requires clear communication, consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your ability to convey your ideas effectively.
✨Demonstrate Cultural Awareness
If you have any knowledge of Vietnamese or Khmer languages, or an understanding of music performance, be sure to mention it. This could set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to the project's cultural context.
