At a Glance
- Tasks: Map community land ownership across Europe and analyse its impact on sustainable development.
- Company: Join the vibrant research team at UHI Perth's Centre for Mountain Studies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, and opportunities for travel across Europe.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on ethical research practices.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in rural communities while exploring Europe.
- Qualifications: Experience in qualitative research methods and a passion for community development.
The predicted salary is between 40574 - 45491 € per year.
Full Time, Fixed Term for 4 Years (48 months): start date 1st October 2026
35 hours per week
Salary: £40,574.10 - £45,491.57 (Sept 26 pay award pending)
UHI Perth is one of Scotland’s leading Colleges of Further and Higher Education, and a large partner in Scotland’s youngest University, the University of the Highlands and Islands. An opportunity has arisen to join our vibrant research team at the Centre for Mountain Studies - UHI Perth (CMS).
The Community Land in Europe project is externally funded by a Leverhulme Trust Research Leadership Award. The project aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the range and nature of community land ownership across Europe and how it affects sustainable development outcomes in rural areas. The project team comprises the project lead, a doctoral student and a postdoctoral researcher.
The researcher will identify and ‘map’ examples of community land ownership across Europe, as well as organisations and social movements promoting and facilitating its expansion. This will broadly comprise four sequenced tasks:
- Gather and translate relevant European literature to reduce linguistic and epistemological bias, and map approaches to community land ownership and governance and their impacts.
- Compile a list of organisations and social movements through desk‑based mapping and collaboration with international partners, including NGOs, advocacy groups, universities and CLAN network members.
- Collect primary data through a mixed‑methods online survey of all identified organisations and movements, creating a multifunctional database.
- Follow up with survey respondents to deepen understanding of local and national contexts, using qualitative methods to explore political, historical and cultural factors shaping public policy and social innovations in community land ownership.
The successful candidate will work closely with the project lead in informing other aspects of the research project. For this purpose, experience of both utilising and supervising the use of qualitative methods and Q methodology would be beneficial. The research team will adopt an enhanced ethical approach to the research throughout, seeking ways in which community groups and local residents can benefit from the presence, conduct and findings of the researchers.
The role is based at the Centre for Mountain Studies, UHI Perth. Under current hybrid working guidelines, support staff can work up to 40% from home and 60% on campus, depending on role requirements. The post holder may be required to travel across Europe for fieldwork and attending relevant events and conferences.
Closing Date: 23:45 on Sunday 31st May 2026
Interview Date: 22nd/23rd June 2026
Researcher – Community Land in Europe Project, Centre for Mountain Studies in Perth employer: Perth College UHI
UHI Perth is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment at the Centre for Mountain Studies. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the institution provides opportunities for professional development and collaboration on impactful research projects that contribute to sustainable community land ownership across Europe. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, while the vibrant academic culture fosters innovation and engagement with diverse communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Researcher – Community Land in Europe Project, Centre for Mountain Studies in Perth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the community land ownership space, especially those connected to the Centre for Mountain Studies. Attend relevant events and conferences to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or presentation that highlights your experience with qualitative methods and any relevant research you've done. This will help you stand out during interviews and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on the latest trends in community land ownership across Europe. Follow key organisations and movements on social media, and engage with their content. This will not only boost your knowledge but also show your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our vibrant research team at the Centre for Mountain Studies.
We think you need these skills to ace Researcher – Community Land in Europe Project, Centre for Mountain Studies in Perth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Researcher role. Highlight your experience with qualitative methods and any relevant projects that align with community land ownership. We want to see how you fit into our vibrant research team!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Use specific examples from your past work or studies that showcase your ability to gather and analyse data, as well as your experience in collaborating with organisations. This will help us see your potential impact on the project.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your passion for community land ownership shines through. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets to the heart of your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application reaches us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Perth College UHI
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the Community Land in Europe project. Understand its goals, methodologies, and the impact it aims to have on sustainable development. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your skills align with the project's objectives.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with qualitative methods and Q methodology. Think of specific examples where you've successfully used these techniques in past projects. Highlighting your ability to gather and analyse data will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Engage with Ethical Considerations
Since the project emphasises an ethical approach, come ready to discuss how you would ensure community groups benefit from your research. Share any previous experiences where you’ve prioritised ethical considerations in your work, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare Questions About Collaboration
The role involves working closely with various organisations and social movements. Prepare thoughtful questions about potential collaborations and how the team plans to engage with international partners. This shows that you're proactive and understand the importance of teamwork in research.
