At a Glance
- Tasks: Transform text data into a gold-standard dataset and conduct quantitative analysis.
- Company: Aberystwyth University, a bilingual institution committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, professional development, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and engage with the wider research community.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in peacekeeping research while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience with quantitative research techniques.
The predicted salary is between 39905 - 46048 € per year.
The Department of International Politics invites applications for a Research Associate position to support the ESRC-funded project "The Unarmed Civilian Protection in South Sudan Dataset". The successful candidate will work closely with the Project Lead and Visiting Researcher to transform Nonviolent Peaceforce’s text data into a gold-standard quantitative dataset, create a codebook, conduct coding and quantitative analysis, co-author research outputs, and present findings at conferences.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
- Create a new gold-standard dataset from Nonviolent Peaceforce’s text data, conceptually defining key variables and sampling primary data.
- Develop a codebook, produce a toolkit, and support training of the project partner’s staff.
- Analyse the data using appropriate quantitative methods.
- Co-write and publish academic articles, training manuals, and policy briefs.
- Facilitate dissemination, impact, and knowledge sharing activities, including presenting at a major academic conference.
- Engage and communicate with project partner Nonviolent Peaceforce and other stakeholders.
- Organise and facilitate online and offline capacity-building activities for the partner and stakeholders.
- Participate in departmental research events and the wider research community.
- Liaise with research-relevant departments at Aberystwyth University as required.
- Undertake additional duties as assigned by the line manager, commensurate with the role’s grade.
- Promote equality of opportunity and support the University’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Essential Qualifications
- PhD in a relevant field (e.g., conflict, humanitarianism, peacekeeping, nonviolent resistance).
- Knowledge of quantitative research techniques, methods and analysis.
- Experience designing, collecting and analysing quantitative data in related fields.
- Advanced skills in statistical software (Stata, R or Python).
- Understanding of data management and archiving.
- Excellent written and oral English communication skills.
- Ability to work to deadlines, operate flexibly and independently.
- Aware of the university’s bilingual context and related procedures.
Desirable Qualifications
- Emerging track record of peer-reviewed journal articles in the social sciences.
- Experience with geospatial data and spatial models.
- Knowledge of quasi-experimental and causal methods.
- Moderate to advanced GIS skills (e.g., QGIS).
- Oral (spoken) and written Welsh Level B1*
Benefits
- Flexible working policy.
- Hybrid working options.
- 36.5-hour week for full-time roles.
- Generous leave entitlements – 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays and university closed days.
- Commitment to professional development.
- Enhanced contribution to the workplace pension scheme.
- Staff recognition and reward schemes.
- Opportunity to learn Welsh at no cost.
- Staff relocation bursary.
- Maternity, paternity, parental and adoption leave.
- Staff discounts for gym, hospitality and retail on campus.
How to Apply
Submit an online application via jobs.aber.ac.uk, including a CV and a covering letter (maximum two A4 pages) addressing the essential and desirable criteria. Applications are open to full-time, part-time, job share and term-time only arrangements. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, those with disabilities and female candidates. The University is a bilingual institution committed to equal opportunities and Welsh language standards.
Contact: Human Resources, Aberystwyth University, Visulisation Centre, Penglais Campus, Ceredigion, SY23 3BF. Tel: (01970) 628555. Email: hr@aber.ac.uk.
Research Associate (Post-Doctoral Researcher) in Aberystwyth employer: Prifysgol Aberystwyth University
Aberystwyth University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee well-being. With flexible working options, generous leave entitlements, and a commitment to diversity, the university fosters an environment where research associates can thrive and contribute meaningfully to impactful projects in international politics. Located in the picturesque Ceredigion region, employees also benefit from a vibrant community and opportunities for personal growth, including learning Welsh at no cost.
Contact Detail:
Prifysgol Aberystwyth University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (Post-Doctoral Researcher) in Aberystwyth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in academia or related fields. Attend conferences and workshops where you can meet potential collaborators or mentors who might know about job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your previous research, data analysis, and any publications. This will help you stand out when you get the chance to chat with hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for interviews by rehearsing answers to common questions in your field. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Research Associate and be ready to discuss your quantitative methods expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly via jobs.aber.ac.uk. It’s the best way to ensure your CV gets seen by the right people and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (Post-Doctoral Researcher) in Aberystwyth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in quantitative research techniques and any previous work with datasets. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should be a chance to showcase your passion for the project and how your background fits. Address both the essential and desirable criteria mentioned in the job description. Let us know why you're the perfect fit for this role!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent written communication is key for this position, make sure your application is clear and concise. Use proper grammar and structure to demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, just like you would in your research outputs.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It's the easiest way for us to receive your materials and ensures that everything is in one place. Plus, it shows you're following our application process closely.
How to prepare for a job interview at Prifysgol Aberystwyth University
✨Know Your Data Inside Out
As a Research Associate, you'll be working with quantitative data, so make sure you’re familiar with the dataset you'll be handling. Brush up on your knowledge of Nonviolent Peaceforce’s text data and think about how you would approach creating a gold-standard dataset. This will show your potential employer that you're not just interested in the role, but that you’re already thinking critically about the work.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with statistical software like Stata, R, or Python. Bring examples of past projects where you've used these tools for data analysis. If you have any experience with GIS or geospatial data, don’t forget to mention that too! Demonstrating your technical prowess can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Questions
Since this role involves working closely with project partners and stakeholders, expect questions about teamwork and collaboration. Think of specific examples where you’ve successfully worked in a team setting, especially in research contexts. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve facilitated knowledge sharing in previous roles.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the broader context of the ESRC-funded project and its impact on peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. Be ready to discuss how your work as a Research Associate could contribute to these goals. Showing that you understand the significance of the research will demonstrate your commitment and passion for the field.
