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- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on popular government and collaborate with an international team.
- Company: King's College London, a leading institution in political economy research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Join a groundbreaking project that empowers citizens and shapes democracy globally.
- Qualifications: PhD (or near completion) in political science or related field, strong research skills.
- Other info: Full-time role with travel opportunities and no teaching responsibilities.
The predicted salary is between 45031 - 48607 £ per year.
King's College London is inviting applications for a Research Associate position within the Department of Political Economy, contributing to the ERC Synergy research project "Popular Government in Global Perspective (POPGOV)." This interdisciplinary project examines the principles and institutions that empower ordinary citizens, contrasting popular government with dominant representative models of democracy.
The successful candidate will contribute to the work package hosted at King's under the supervision of Dr Udit Bhatia, focusing on popular government in the Global South, with particular emphasis on constitutional moments in regions such as Chile, India, and South Africa. Candidates may also propose alternative case studies relevant to the project's broader aims.
The role is research-focused with no teaching responsibilities and is designed to support the development of a strong academic profile leading toward permanent or tenure-track positions. The post-holder will collaborate with an international consortium of researchers across institutions including LSE, UC Louvain, and the University of Girona, integrating empirical, comparative, and philosophical approaches.
Responsibilities include:
- Conducting independent and collaborative research
- Contributing to publications and project outputs
- Participating in regular international meetings
- Undertaking fieldwork
Travel will be required approximately every six months for meetings held in London, Girona, and Brussels. This is a full-time position (35 hours per week) offered on a fixed-term contract from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2030. The role includes access to professional development opportunities in line with the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers.
Eligibility Criteria
- A completed PhD (or near completion at the time of appointment) in political science, history, or a closely related discipline
- Demonstrated ability to conduct high-quality academic research
- Fluency in written and spoken English
- Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse, interdisciplinary team
Required Expertise / Skills
- Strong skills in quantitative, historical, and theoretical research methods
- Ability to address complex research questions creatively
- Excellent written and oral communication skills for academic and non-academic audiences
- Capacity to contribute to interdisciplinary research and collaborate across institutions
Desirable: experience with publications, research presentations, collaborative projects, and administrative tasks.
Salary Details
£45,031 to £48,607 per annum including London Weighting Allowance (Initial appointment may be at a lower grade for candidates awaiting PhD award, with progression upon confirmation).
Research Associate (POPGOV Project) in London employer: RFCSR
Contact Detail:
RFCSR Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate (POPGOV Project) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former researchers in the field, especially those connected to the POPGOV project. A friendly chat can give you insights and maybe even a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research chops! Prepare a short presentation or a portfolio of your work that highlights your skills in quantitative and theoretical methods. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on global political trends, especially in the Global South. Being able to discuss recent developments in countries like Chile, India, and South Africa will show your genuine interest and expertise.
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate (POPGOV Project) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for the Research Associate role. We want to see how your background aligns with the POPGOV project, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise in political science or related fields!
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this position is all about research, be sure to emphasise your ability to conduct high-quality academic research. Include any specific methodologies you’ve used, especially if they relate to quantitative or historical methods, as these are key for us.
Communicate Clearly: Your written communication skills are crucial for this role, so make sure your application is clear and concise. We appreciate well-structured documents that convey your ideas effectively, so take the time to proofread and polish your writing before submitting.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do, so go ahead and get that application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at RFCSR
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the POPGOV project and its aims. Familiarise yourself with the principles of popular government and how they contrast with traditional models of democracy. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the project.
✨Prepare for Interdisciplinary Questions
Since this role involves collaboration across various disciplines, be ready to discuss how your background in political science or related fields can contribute to interdisciplinary research. Think about examples from your past work that highlight your ability to integrate different perspectives.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As the role requires excellent written and oral communication skills, prepare to demonstrate these during the interview. You might be asked to explain complex concepts simply, so practice articulating your research in a way that’s accessible to non-specialists.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project, the team, and the expectations for the role. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals. Consider asking about potential case studies or the nature of international collaborations.