Senior Research Associate (HR and Public Sector Management) in Manchester

Manchester Metropolitan University is seeking an ambitious and talented Research Associate to join the Research Centre for Decent Work and Productivity within the Business School. This exciting opportunity is funded through the Research Excellence: Accelerator Investment initiative and will support the development of high-quality, internationally recognised research in the fields of organisation studies, human resource management (HRM), and public sector management.

Working closely with Professor Carol Atkinson and Professor Roman Kislov, the successful candidate will contribute to the production of high-quality journal articles by undertaking literature reviews, analysing existing qualitative datasets, and drafting manuscripts for submission to leading academic journals.

About the Role

The Research Associate will play a key role in advancing the University's research profile through the development of theoretically sophisticated and methodologically rigorous publications. You will work collaboratively with senior academics while also taking responsibility for progressing independent research activities and contributing to the wider research culture of the department.

Key responsibilities

• Conducting comprehensive literature reviews.
• Analysing existing qualitative datasets using advanced qualitative methods.
• Developing and drafting manuscripts for submission to highly ranked academic journals.
• Using specialist software including NVivo and EndNote.
• Presenting research findings at conferences, seminars, and research forums.
• Supporting the development of research proposals and future funding applications.
• Building and maintaining productive relationships with internal and external partners.
• Contributing to the wider activities of the Research Centre and Business School.

About You

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher with expertise in organisation studies, HRM, or public sector management and a strong commitment to producing world-class research.

Qualifications

• A doctoral qualification (or be close to completion) in a relevant discipline.
• Significant research experience in organisation studies, HRM, or public sector management.
• Demonstrable experience of contributing independently to research projects.
• Proficiency in qualitative data analysis software, particularly NVivo.
• Experience using reference management software such as EndNote.
• A strong understanding of contemporary theory and practice within the relevant field.
• Excellent analytical, written, and communication skills.
• Experience presenting research findings at national and/or international conferences.
• The ability to build productive relationships and research networks.
• Evidence of publication activity, ideally including publications in high-quality academic journals.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience supervising student research.
• Experience contributing to research funding applications and proposal development.
• A developing track record of publication in highly ranked journals.
• Evidence of successful collaboration with external partners and stakeholders.

To apply: Please attach your CV and cover letter detailing how you meet the person specification.

Why Join Us?

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals. We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support. Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups. Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.