Senior Research Associate (Institute for Children's Futures) in Manchester

The Institute for Children's Futures brings together communities of researchers, practitioners and policy makers across Manchester Metropolitan University and beyond. In doing so, it is establishing a critical mass of research power to support evidence-based policy and practice and to identify trends and patterns which affect children’s futures.

If you have an academic speciality in the field of children and young people at a post‑doctoral level, and the commitment and drive to apply your career to improve the lives of children and young people through research and evaluation, then this is your opportunity to join us as a Senior Research Associate. This role is being offered on a full‑time basis, for a period of four years to August 2030.

About The Role

The main purpose of this role is to carry out cross‑faculty research, evaluation and reporting on behalf of the Institute for Children's Futures. Specifically, the role will support the Institute’s priority workstreams of research, working closely with the Institute’s senior leadership team and its network of members. The role will report directly to one of the Institute’s Directors and will collaborate closely with the ICF’s senior leadership team and external partners. This role is a unique opportunity for a committed postdoctoral researcher in the field of children and young people to make significant contributions to advancing the Institute’s research and profile. The role will involve building research connections and professional relationships with colleagues in all four faculties across Manchester Metropolitan University, and externally with the Institute’s growing network of partners and stakeholders in organisations such as local and national government agencies, commercial organisations, charities, and international bodies such as the United Nations.

About You

We would expect you to have completed a PhD in the field of children and young people, to possess significant experience of contributing towards the evaluation of research programmes, and in writing and developing bids to a variety of funding bodies. Experience of working in multidisciplinary and multi‑agency teams, or in undertaking participatory research with children and young people, would also be considered a significant advantage. It is essential that you have the capability and confidence to represent ICF to colleagues across the University and further afield, and to represent and advocate for both the ICF and the University in collaborative and decision‑making forums.

Further Information and How to Apply

Please apply via the Manchester Metropolitan University recruitment system, alongside submitting your CV and a two‑page expression of interest, outlining how you meet the person specification, why you wish to apply for the role, the contributions you would bring and your priorities in the role. If you would like further information, or to arrange for an informal discussion about the role, please contact ICF@mmu.ac.uk. Interviews will be held on Thursday 13th August 2026.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings 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.