At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct impactful research on prison systems and support data collection with incarcerated individuals.
- Company: Join The Open University, a leader in social policy and criminology research.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development opportunities, and potential contract extension.
- Other info: Opportunity to travel and engage with diverse stakeholders in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Make a difference in the lives of those affected by remand custody while advancing your research career.
- Qualifications: PhD in Criminology or Social Policy, strong communication skills, and qualitative research experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Join to apply for the Postdoctoral Research Associate role at The Open University.
This range is provided by The Open University. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
Department: Social Policy & Criminology
Closing Date: 2 November 2025
Weekly Working Hours: 14.8
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
Fixed Term Contract: End Date: 31 July 2026
About the Role
We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated Post-Doctoral Research Associate to work in the School of Social Policy and Criminology at The Open University on a prison project. The successful candidate will work closely with both CO-I’s - Dr Isla Masson (Open University) and Dr Natalie Booth (Bath Spa University). The post holder will use their research knowledge and skills to provide support with the qualitative data collection for a research prison project exploring the impact of remand custody on both those incarcerated, as well as family members, partners and friends supporting them in the community.
The successful candidate will require strong interpersonal, gatekeeper and stakeholder management and communication skills, in addition to qualitative research experience and skills and flexibility. The post holder will need to travel to different prison locations in England (very likely to be in the South of England) and Wales to maintain relationships with prison gatekeepers and to collect data with remand prisoners and individuals supporting them in the community. The postholder will be required to work remotely when processing and analysing the data and will need to undergo HMPPS security clearance. Relevant training and support will be made available.
Although this role is initially 6 months long, there may be the opportunity for the successful candidate to have their contract extended if additional funding is achieved.
Key Responsibilities
- Play an active part in maintaining relationships with prison gatekeepers.
- To collect data with those incarcerated on remand, as well as those supporting them in the community.
- To support with processing and analysis of collected data.
- To maintain contact with participants after they have taken part in the research.
- Support the development and submission of funding bids including: working on data and impact plans, networking with non-academic stakeholders and partners, and scoping of potential funding sources.
About You
- A PhD or equivalent in an area of Criminology or Social Policy or cognate discipline.
- Evidence of research excellence in Criminology or Social Policy.
- Ability to communicate effectively and persuasively – in writing and in person – with a diverse range of individuals.
- Capable of working independently and taking responsibility for own elements of work within the project, but also collaboratively as part of a small research team.
- Willingness to travel to carry out research, with potential overnight stays.
- Computer literacy and ICT competence.
- Understandings of ethics in Criminology and GDPR requirements.
- A commitment to equal opportunities policies and practices.
- A commitment to Open University values.
- Experience of working in prison, or with prisoner’s families.
- An existing track record of publication, particularly in academic journals.
- A proven ability of engaging with public policy and work collaboratively with practitioners and policy makers.
- Ability to develop and maintain excellent relationships with external stakeholders, including non-academic stakeholders.
- Ability to work within, and develop, research networks that include non-academic stakeholders.
- A full driving licence and access to a car.
- Experience of contributing to the preparation of research bids to external funders.
- Experience of designing, organising or delivering knowledge exchange activities.
Seniority level
- Associate
Employment type
- Part-time
Job function
- Research
- Higher Education
Note: This job description focuses on the Open University role and related requirements. Other postings listed are for informational purposes and not part of this position.
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Postdoctoral Research Associate employer: The Open University
The Open University is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages professional growth. With flexible working arrangements and a commitment to work-life balance, employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to groundbreaking research in extragalactic astronomy. Located in Milton Keynes, the university provides access to cutting-edge resources and a collaborative atmosphere, making it an ideal place for passionate researchers to advance their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate
✨Join Medical Networks
Get involved in local and national medical associations, like the Royal College of Physicians. These networks can help you connect with mentors and colleagues who might know of openings, plus they're great for staying updated on the latest in medicine and clinical practices.
✨Attend Healthcare Conferences
Make it a habit to attend medical conferences and seminars. These events are fantastic for networking and often feature job boards where hospitals and clinics post their openings. Plus, it’s a good way to get your face recognised in the industry.
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When you're ready to apply, make sure to check the careers section of hospital websites directly. Hospitals like The Open University often post their job openings there first, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other applicants.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Credentials:When applying for a physician role, make sure to highlight your medical qualifications and any special certifications you have. We want to see your medical degree, residency training, and any additional certifications that set you apart, like specialised training in paediatrics or geriatrics. Don’t leave out those all-important letters after your name!
Tailor Your CV to Medicine:Your CV should reflect your experience and skills as a doctor. Be specific about your clinical rotations, medical practice, and any research work you've done – we love seeing quantifiable impacts, so mention how you've improved patient care or led successful treatment plans.
Craft a Personal Statement with Heart:In your cover letter, let us know why you chose medicine and what drives your passion for patient care. Personal stories about transformative experiences—like a memorable patient encounter or a moment that defined your career path—can really make you shine. Remember, we're looking for someone who genuinely cares about their patients!
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How to prepare for a job interview at The Open University
✨Get Clinical Knowledge Sharp
Brush up on your clinical knowledge, particularly in areas relevant to the role at The Open University. Expect questions about diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient management. Be ready to discuss case studies or even do some role-playing with hypothetical patient scenarios for a more practical assessment.
✨Know Your Procedures and Protocols
Familiarise yourself with the latest procedures and protocols that are specific to the field of medicine you’re applying to. Whether it’s surgical techniques or patient care protocols, being able to discuss these confidently can really set you apart in the interview at The Open University.
✨Show You're a Team Player
In the medical field, collaboration is key. Have examples ready that showcase your teamwork and communication skills. Talk about how you've worked with nurses, specialists, or other doctors in the past to provide the best care for your patients. This shows you're ready to integrate into the team at The Open University.
✨Stay Current with Medical Trends
Make sure you’re clued up on the latest medical trends, research, and innovations. Not only does this prepare you for technical questions, but it also shows your passion for the field. Be ready to discuss how these trends might affect your practice at The Open University.
