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- Tasks: Lead research on climate transition and democratic innovations in the North of England.
- Company: Join Lancaster University, a top-rated research institution focused on sustainability and social justice.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible work environment, competitive salary, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate justice while collaborating with leading universities and experts.
- Qualifications: No PhD required; experience in democratic innovation or climate policy is a plus.
- Other info: We encourage diverse applicants and offer part-time options.
The predicted salary is between 33900 - 45400 Ā£ per year.
Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre – 0458-25
Join to apply for the Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre – 0458-25 role at Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre – 0458-25
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Join to apply for the Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre – 0458-25 role at Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre
Lancaster Environment Centre
Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
Salary: Ā£39,355 to Ā£45,413 full time, indefinite with end date
Closing Date: Monday 15 September 2025
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Reference: 0458-25
Overview of the role
Lancaster University is seeking to appoint a Senior Research Associate to work within the Joined-Up Sustainability Transformations (JUST) Centre. This is a full or part-time position funded for three years (assuming full-time, longer if part-time). We would like to have someone in post by September 2025.
JUST brings together the universities of Lancaster, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, and Newcastle to accelerate understanding of a just climate transition by leading and coordinating research into action at all levels of society. The post-holder will work on two aspects of the Centreās research agenda that are being led out of Lancaster University. First, place-based case-study research in West Cumbria, focusing on \”what works, where, and why (and for whom)\” to accelerate a just transition to low-carbon living. Second, coordinating work across the North of England on ādemocratic innovationsā, a core theme of the JUST Centre.
About You
A PhD is not a formal requirement for this role. We welcome applications from people who have academic or practical experience in the following areas:
- Democratic innovation and/or public participation
- Local government policy and decision making on climate change and net zero
- Participatory action research with communities in the North of England and/ or focused on issues of justice and sustainability
JUST is founded on principles of justice, particularly intersectional approaches to addressing injustice and inequality. We aim for the composition of the JUST research team to reflect these principles. Accordingly, we actively seek to recruit in ways that maximize the diversity of the Centreās membership and strongly encourage applications from individuals from backgrounds historically excluded from research institutions. We also welcome applicants who wish to take on this position part-time.
Why work with us
You will be based at Lancaster University, joining the vibrant Climate Citizens research groupāa hub of expertise in energy and climate governance. You will also be part of the wider Critical Geographies Research Group within the Lancaster Environment Centre and a broader community of researchers across the five universities comprising the JUST CentreāLancaster, Leeds, Liverpool, Manchester, and Newcastleāas well as the Young Foundation (impact partner).
Lancaster is a research-intensive university. REF 2021 rated 99% of Lancaster\’s overall research environment as 4* \’world leading\’ or 3* \’internationally excellent\’. Lancaster University provides an environment that strongly supports the needs of each employee, promoting a healthy work-life balance. Find out about more of our employee benefits and life at Lancaster on our website – https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/jobs
For an informal chat about the role, please contact Dr Jacob Ainscough, Senior Research Associate (j.ainscough@lancaster.ac.uk).
Find out what it\’s like to work at Lancaster University, including information on our wide range of employee benefits, support networks and our policies and facilities for a family-friendly workplace.
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues.
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
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Please note: unless specified otherwise in the advert, all advertised roles are UK based.
Find out what it\’s like to work at Lancaster University, including information on our wide range of employee benefits, support networks and our policies and facilities for a family-friendly workplace.
The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues.
We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.
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Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre - 0458-25 employer: Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
Contact Detail:
Lancaster University Conferences and Events+ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice š¤«
We think this is how you could land Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre - 0458-25
āØTip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the JUST Centre's research agenda and its focus on democratic innovations and climate change. Understanding their specific projects and goals will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their mission during any discussions.
āØTip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Lancaster University, especially those involved in the Climate Citizens research group. Engaging in conversations can provide valuable insights into the work culture and expectations for the Senior Research Associate role.
āØTip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your practical experience in participatory action research and local government policy. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to engage communities and drive sustainable initiatives.
āØTip Number 4
Highlight your commitment to diversity and inclusion in your interactions. The JUST Centre values a diverse team, so showcasing your understanding of intersectional approaches to justice can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Research Associate: JUST Centre - 0458-25
Some tips for your application š«”
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required skills for the Senior Research Associate position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role's focus on democratic innovation and public participation.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any academic or practical experience you have in local government policy, participatory action research, or climate change initiatives. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to justice and sustainability.
Showcase Your Values: Since the JUST Centre values diversity and inclusion, make sure to express your understanding of these principles in your application. Discuss how your background or experiences contribute to a more inclusive research environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also conveys your passion for the role and the mission of the JUST Centre. Make it clear why you want to work at Lancaster University and how you can contribute to their research agenda.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lancaster University Conferences and Events+
āØUnderstand the Research Agenda
Familiarise yourself with the JUST Centre's research focus, particularly on democratic innovations and climate change. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their projects.
āØShowcase Relevant Experience
Highlight any academic or practical experience you have in participatory action research or local government policy. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and how they relate to the role.
āØEmphasise Diversity and Inclusion
Since the JUST Centre values diversity, be ready to discuss how your background and experiences can enhance the team's inclusivity. Share any relevant experiences that reflect your commitment to justice and equality.
āØPrepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready for the interviewers about the role, the team, and the Centre's future projects. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
