At a Glance
- Tasks: Support local researchers and conduct comparative analysis on migration in African cities.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on impactful research in urban Africa.
- Benefits: Generous pension, 29 days leave, and travel opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse perspectives welcomed; excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in understanding migration while enhancing your research skills.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in qualitative research.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Research Fellow in Migration in African Cities. This 12-month post-doctoral role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the African Cities Research Consortium’s research on migration and mobility in Accra, Lagos, Kampala, Nairobi, Harare, Maiduguri and Mogadishu. You will support local researchers, contribute to comparative analysis across cities, and help develop outputs including working papers, policy briefs, blogs, academic publications and conference presentations.
Responsibilities
- Supporting local researchers in the ACRC cities to conduct their research and communicate effectively across contexts.
- Conducting some additional primary research as needed to maximise the potential of the work.
- Develop comparative analysis across the cities, identifying common lessons learned and policy recommendations.
- Contribute to background working papers, policy briefs and blogs, and participate in workshops and webinars, as well as preparing academic outputs and contributing to conference presentations.
We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.
About You
We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences.
Essential Criteria
- PhD in a relevant subject (such as Migration Studies, Urban Studies, Geography or Development Studies) with experience conducting research in urban Africa.
- Experience of working with knowledge partners in Africa and expertise in qualitative research methods and analysis.
- Excellent writing skills.
- An emerging track‑record of publishing academic papers.
- Willingness to travel as required.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience of working on externally-funded research projects.
- Experience of comparative research.
Benefits
- Generous employer contribution pension.
- 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure.
- Ride to work and EV car scheme available.
Research Associate in Migration in African Cities in Manchester employer: The University of Manchester
The University of Manchester is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have access to comprehensive benefits including leading pension schemes and health services, all while contributing to the strategic direction of a prestigious institution in a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and academic excellence.
Contact Details:
The University of Manchester Recruitment Team
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We think this is how you could land Research Associate in Migration in African Cities in Manchester
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We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate in Migration in African Cities in Manchester
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Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at The University of Manchester. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at The University of Manchester. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Manchester
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
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Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at The University of Manchester. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at The University of Manchester to drive research projects forward.
