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- Tasks: Join a dynamic research team exploring the history of popular government and democratic theory.
- Company: LSE, a leading university committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in academia while focusing on groundbreaking research without teaching obligations.
- Qualifications: PhD in Politics, History, or related field; strong research interest in political theory.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career growth and mentoring support.
The predicted salary is between 43277 - 51714 ÂŁ per year.
LSE is committed to building a diverse, equitable and truly inclusive university.
The Department of Government is recruiting 4 Research Officers (Postdoctoral Researchers) with a specialization in political theory and the history of political thought. We are looking for excellent candidates with the potential of pursuing a successful career in academia. The successful candidates will be part of the research project “Popular Government in Global Perspective” (POPGOV) co‑led by Assistant Professor Bruno Leipold. The positions are full‑time appointments for a period of four years.
Candidates should have completed (or be near completion of) their PhD in Politics, History or a related field by the post start date. The ideal candidate will have a research interest in the history of popular government and democratic theory, the ability to apply methods from political theory and the history of political thought, and a willingness to engage with the empirical, philosophical and comparative approaches utilised by the wider research group.
The successful candidates will contribute to realizing the ERC‑funded research project POPGOV, which seeks to uncover the principles and institutions of popular government, understood as those which empower ordinary citizens rather than socio‑economic elites. The work package to be carried out at LSE focuses on the history of popular government, including the English Revolution (17th Century); American, French and Haitian Revolutions (18th Century); Latin American Revolutions (19th Century) and German Revolution (20th Century). Further historical moments of popular government may also be studied by the recruited candidates depending on their specialisms.
Candidates are asked to use their research statement to outline their proposed research project on the history of popular government and how it contributes to the broader aims of POPGOV.
Through the post, candidates are expected to develop a research profile and competencies that prepare them for successfully applying to permanent, tenure‑track positions in academia. The focus of the position is therefore research with no teaching obligations. Candidates are expected to contribute to the success of the research team by working collaboratively on all aspects of the project (administration, conceptualisation, analysis, writing, and presentation).
Beyond fostering candidates’ research profile, the PI and the Department of Government are committed to promoting the career development of the successful candidates through systematic career development reviews, regular mentoring, as well as formal training opportunities.
We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave and excellent training and development opportunities.
The closing date for receipt of applications is 24 April UK time. Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications. Interviews are likely to take place in w/c 18 May 2026.
Research Officers x4 (POPGOV) in London employer: The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Contact Detail:
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Officers x4 (POPGOV) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your academic contacts and let them know you're on the job hunt. They might have insider info or even recommend you for positions, so don’t be shy!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the department and its projects. Knowing the ins and outs of POPGOV will show your genuine interest and help you stand out during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your research interests and how they align with the goals of the project. A clear and confident presentation can make a huge difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at LSE.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Officers x4 (POPGOV) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Research Statement: Make sure your research statement is spot on! Highlight how your proposed project aligns with the aims of POPGOV and showcase your unique perspective on the history of popular government. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t hold back on showcasing your skills in political theory and history! Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate how you can contribute to the research team. Remember, we’re looking for candidates who can engage with various approaches, so let us know what you bring to the table.
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we want a professional application, don’t forget to let your personality come through! A bit of your voice can make your application stand out. Just be sure to keep it relevant to the role and the research project.
Apply Through Our Website: Make life easier for yourself and apply through our website! It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, if you have any technical issues, you can easily reach out for help using the contact links provided.
How to prepare for a job interview at The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of your proposed research project on the history of popular government. Be ready to discuss how it aligns with the broader aims of the POPGOV project. This shows your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Engage with the Team's Work
Familiarise yourself with the research interests and recent publications of Assistant Professor Bruno Leipold and the wider research group. Being able to reference their work during the interview will demonstrate your enthusiasm for collaboration and your fit within the team.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask about the project, the department, and potential career development opportunities. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right environment for your academic growth.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since the role involves working collaboratively on various aspects of the project, be prepared to share examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked in a team. Highlight your ability to contribute to administration, analysis, and writing.