Overview
Manchester Metropolitan University seeks an ambitious and talented Research Associate to join the Research Centre for Decent Work and Productivity within the Business School. This opportunity is funded through the Research Excellence: Accelerator Investment initiative and supports the development of high‑quality, internationally recognised research in organisation studies, human resource management (HRM), and public sector management.
About the Role
The Research Associate 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. Working closely with Professor Carol Atkinson and Professor Roman Kislov, the candidate will collaborate with senior academics, take responsibility for progressing independent research activities, and contribute to the wider research culture of the department.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive literature reviews
- Analyse existing qualitative datasets using advanced qualitative methods
- Develop and draft manuscripts for submission to highly ranked academic journals
- Use specialist software including NVivo and EndNote
- Present research findings at conferences, seminars, and research forums
- Support the development of research proposals and future funding applications
- Build and maintain productive relationships with internal and external partners
- Contribute 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.
Requirements
- A doctoral qualification (or 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
- 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
- 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
- Developing track record of publication in highly ranked journals
- Evidence of successful collaboration with external partners and stakeholders
Benefits
Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce 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.
Contact Details:
The Manchester Metropolitan University Recruitment Team
