At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a 9-month research project on post-study experiences in visual and performance arts.
- Company: Collaborative partnership between LADA and Queen Mary University of London.
- Benefits: £20,000 research fee, access to resources, and support from experienced supervisors.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements with opportunities for hybrid research delivery.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the careers of emerging artists and shape the future of the creative industry.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field or nearing completion by April 2026.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 20000 £ per year.
As part of the Post-Study research project, we are seeking a post-doctoral researcher to lead and deliver a 9-month project investigating the post-study landscape for undergraduate and postgraduate alumni (1–5 years post-study) from London area visual and performance art programmes. The role will combine data collection, stakeholder engagement and qualitative analysis to inform understanding of graduates' needs to retain and professionalise talent within our sectors.
The role will be supported by the Live Art Development Agency (LADA), Queen Mary University of London's Department of Drama & English (QMUL) and the Post-Study Network (a temporary network of London based Cultural SMEs and HEIs). The Network will provide strategic oversight, support in amplifying the reach of the research, and distribution of findings. The successful candidate will be supervised by Mary Osborn, Director (LADA) and Dr Martin O'Brien, Head of the Department of Drama (QMUL).
This is an exciting opportunity for an early- or mid-career researcher with strong qualitative and organisational skills, capable of designing and executing a project that includes roundtable discussions and 1:1 interviews, survey analysis and stakeholder engagement. This research project is made possible with funding from Arts Council England.
About Post-Study: Post-Study is a new research project exploring how early-career practitioners working in Live Art and Interdisciplinary Performance can build sustainable careers and engage in lifelong learning after finishing their studies. Led by the Live Art Development Agency and Queen Mary University of London with funding from Arts Council England, the project will listen to current final year undergraduate and postgraduate students, and recent graduates to understand what support is most needed – and where the gaps are.
We're asking a simple but urgent question: How do Live Art practitioners transition from study into sustainable careers in the creative industries?
When is the 9-month period of research undertaken? The 9-month research period begins following the successful recruitment of the Post-Doctoral candidate. Applications are due 20 February 2026. Interviews will take place the first or second week of March 2026. Ideally, the candidate can start from April 2026 with the 9-month period beginning in April 2026 and ending in December 2026. LADA and QMUL understand that there may be necessary delays in on-boarding and/or previously scheduled events in the candidates life that requires the research period timeline to shift.
What does Post-Doctoral Status mean in this context? LADA's previous research project identified multiple gaps in provision for post-doctoral students in visual arts and performance. As such, LADA and QMUL are interested in a researcher (early- or mid-career) who is completing (submission and or viva between February 2026 and April 2026) or has completed (no stipulation on completion date) a PhD in an appropriate field of study. If you are completing a PhD by April 2026 you can submit an application. If you have obtained a PhD prior to April 2026 you can submit an application.
What does the partnership between LADA and QMUL mean for the Researcher's employment status? The successful candidate will be employed by LADA as a freelancer. QMUL's Department of Drama and English are partnering in an advisory capacity. Candidates will have their researcher supervised by Dr Martin O'Brien (QMUL) and Mary Osborn (LADA). Through our partnership, the successful candidate will have access to QMUL's physical and digital library resources.
How should my CV be formatted and included in the application pack? Your CV can be academic or narrative. Your CV should be a separate attachment to the 3-page proposal and can be any length appropriate to demonstrate your experience and skills.
Can I be based outside London? Is there London weighting? Applicants can be based anywhere in the UK but should articulate how they will deliver the research in a hybrid manner. Any costs related to travel will need to be considered and included in the proposal, no matter where a candidate resides.
Can you clarify the budget for the project? There are two pots of money that you need to consider for your application:
- The research fee (£20,000). This includes the Researcher's fee for the 9-month period, any contractors they want to pay to support their research plan, and any personnel or contractors, travel/accommodation/hospitality costs (including per diems during travel). You do not need to budget for venues for the roundtables or 1:1 meetings.
- The engagement and distribution pot (£4,300). This budget has been broken down to support engagement across the research period and distribution. You can identify how you want to use each budget line.
Marketing & Distribution – these funds need to cover marketing of the survey and round tables AND distribution of the final report. It is not advisable to print copies of the final report; you should consider digital distribution methods.
Hospitality – these funds should be allocated against roundtables and 1:1s. You do not need to budget for venues for the roundtables or 1:1 meetings.
Honorariums – these funds should be used for 1:1 meetings with key stakeholders and should be a minimum of £50 and a maximum of £150.
Access budget – these funds are earmarked for candidates to identify any costs related to making the research project more accessible for themselves. Any additional access costs for the research will need to be identified within the £20k research fee.
Admin Support/Contingency – This is a required contingency of funds that can be distributed across the other budget lines. Should you require some support for admin you can pay freelancers from this pot.
Can I use the £20k research envelope to hire other researchers, contractors, or administrators? Yes, if you want to use part of the £20k research fee envelope to contract an administrator, other researchers or freelancers with skills that will support your research plan.
Remember that there is a £600 contingency built into the engagement and distribution pot.
The call for submissions notes "Venues" available for the research period, what does this mean? LADA and QMUL are partnering to deliver this research. You can use LADA's venue (The Garrett Centre) or QMUL (BLOC) to schedule roundtables and or use these venues as offices (schedule agreed during onboarding). You do NOT need to budget for these venues. We have agreed 3 x events at LADA and 3 x events at QMUL, with additional space/time for you to work at the venues as necessary.
Post-Study: Post-Doctoral Researcher Call Out in London employer: Thisisliveart
Joining the Live Art Development Agency (LADA) and Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) as a Post-Doctoral Researcher offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful research that directly impacts the creative industries. With a supportive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation, you will benefit from access to extensive resources, mentorship from experienced professionals, and the chance to contribute to vital discussions on career sustainability for emerging artists. This role not only enhances your professional growth but also allows you to make a significant difference in the lives of recent graduates in the vibrant London arts scene.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Post-Study: Post-Doctoral Researcher Call Out in London
✨Make Your Research Visible
Get your research out there! Create a public portfolio where you can showcase your work, like papers, reports, or even presentations. Platforms like ResearchGate or personal websites can work wonders to illustrate your expertise and attract potential clients.
✨Join Professional Networks
Tap into scientific research communities online. Sites like LinkedIn are great, but check out niche platforms like ResearchGate or academia.edu where you can connect with fellow researchers and showcase your skills. Engaging in discussions can also lead to freelance gigs and collaborations.
✨Attend Conferences and Webinars
Keep an eye on industry-specific events! Attend scientific conferences, workshops, and webinars related to your field. These gatherings are not just for learning; they’re ideal for networking and finding freelance opportunities. Plus, your knowledge will be fresh and up-to-date!
✨Pitch to Relevant Companies
Don't hesitate to reach out to companies that align with your research interests—many look for freelance researchers! A quick email showcasing your skills and how you can help them with specific projects could land you some exciting work. And don’t forget, you can always check our website for up-to-date freelance opportunities at Thisisliveart!
We think you need these skills to ace Post-Study: Post-Doctoral Researcher Call Out in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Research Experience:In the scientific research world, your experience is key, so make sure to highlight any relevant research projects you've been part of. We’re looking for specific skills and techniques, so mention any methodologies or technologies you've used and any publications that showcase your work.
Build a Rock-Solid Portfolio:As a freelancer, having a portfolio is crucial. Include detailed summaries of your past projects, emphasising your contributions and outcomes. Consider attaching papers or reports you've authored to give us a clear picture of your capabilities and results in research.
Be Transparent About Your Availability:Since this is freelance work, be upfront about your availability and how you like to manage your workload. Let us know what hours you're free and how many projects you can handle, as this helps us match you with the right opportunities at Thisisliveart.
Tailor Your CV for the Role:When customising your CV, focus on skills that are particularly valuable in scientific research, such as analytical skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving. Make sure these traits jump out, as we want to see you shine in your application for the Post-Study: Post-Doctoral Researcher Call Out at Thisisliveart.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thisisliveart
✨Showcase Your Scientific Expertise
During your interview for a freelance position in scientific research, be ready to discuss your specific expertise and projects in detail. They might ask you technical questions related to your area, like methodologies or analysis techniques. Bring up specific papers or experiments you've worked on to illustrate your experience!
✨Portfolio Power
Since this is freelance, your portfolio is your best friend. Highlight relevant publications, research summaries, or even data sets you've worked on. Don't just tell them what you can do; show them! Tailor your portfolio to fit the types of research they focus on at Thisisliveart.
✨Know the Current Trends
Keep yourself updated with the latest developments in your field. Companies like Thisisliveart want to see that you're not just proficient in research techniques but also aware of the emerging trends and technologies. Prepare to chat about recent scientific breakthroughs or methodologies and how they could apply to potential projects.
✨Freelance Flexibility
As a freelancer, your ability to manage your time and communicate effectively is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you'd handle project timelines, client expectations, and feedback. They’ll likely want details on how you’d fit into their existing workflows at Thisisliveart, so be ready to highlight your adaptability!
