At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a cutting-edge research project and analyse citizen attitudes towards global issues.
- Company: University College London, a leading centre for political research.
- Benefits: 41 days holiday, pension scheme, gym access, and employee support services.
- Why this job: Advance your research career while making a real impact in political science.
- Qualifications: PhD in Political Science or related field, with relevant research experience.
- Other info: Collaborate with top researchers and develop your skills in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The ERC Advanced Grant project Citizen Attitudes Towards National and International Problems (CATNIP) is seeking to appoint two postdoctoral research fellows. The project runs from September to August, and these two posts are expected to be held from September to August. The project is based in the Department of Political Science at University College London. These positions are full time, three year postdoctoral fellow roles, suitable for early career researchers who are at the point of completing their PhD or who have recently completed their PhD.
The appointed Fellows will work with the project Principal Investigator (PI) to develop the research design, data collection, data analysis, and dissemination and publication of the project’s research. The two Fellows will each be focused on distinct parts of the project, and will be expected to bring requisite skills as specified in more detail in the person specification below.
- One fellow will work primarily on the design, data collection, and analysis of surveys (including survey experiments) of citizens in a range of countries.
- One fellow will work primarily on the design, data collection, and analysis of text data generated by the activity of media and elite political actors in a range of countries.
The Fellows will be expected to work independently and collaboratively as co-authors with one another and with the PI. These positions are intended to advance the research aims of the project, but to also be a valuable opportunity for the Fellows to develop their research profile and careers. The Department of Political Science at UCL is a leading international centre for political research, and the Fellows will be integrated into a broader research cluster of staff and PhD students working in the areas of Comparative Political Economy and Behaviour.
The appointment is expected to be at Grade 7, at UCL spine point 31. Appointment at a higher spine point within Grade may be possible if the appointed individual has significant relevant research experience post-PhD. The salary at this spine point is £45,000 in 2026 (inclusive of London Allowance), and is expected to be adjusted upwards in light of national pay negotiations for 2027. Annual incremental pay progression applies across the term of the position according to UCL’s pay policies.
The postholder(s) will have a PhD in Political Science or related field, or nearing completion of such a PhD and on track to submit dissertation in advance of the agreed start date. Experience of either:
- Experience designing, commissioning/fielding, analysing, and disseminating surveys and survey experiments of citizens. Aware of and competent to apply recent methodological advances in this area.
- Or Experience designing, collecting data for, analysing, and disseminating quantitative analyses of political text data. Aware of and competent to apply recent methodological advances in this area.
As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits:
- 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days)
- Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
- Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
- On-Site nursery
- On-site gym
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
- Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
- Discounted medical insurance
Postdoctoral Research Fellow in London employer: UCL Eastman Dental Institute
Contact Detail:
UCL Eastman Dental Institute Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Fellow in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your academic contacts, attend conferences, and engage with fellow researchers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your research skills. Be ready to discuss how your work aligns with the project’s goals and how you can contribute to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a strong online presence. Update your LinkedIn profile and academic portfolio to reflect your latest research and achievements. This can help you stand out to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that postdoc role! We’re all about making the application process smooth and straightforward, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Fellow in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific requirements of the Postdoctoral Research Fellow role. We want to see how you fit into our project, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Showcase Your Research Skills: Since this role involves a lot of research design and data analysis, be sure to emphasise your experience in these areas. Whether it’s surveys or text data, we’re keen to know how you’ve tackled similar challenges in your past work.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at UCL Eastman Dental Institute
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and how it relates to the project. Be prepared to discuss your PhD work and any relevant methodologies you've used, especially those related to surveys or text data analysis.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Project
Dive deep into the CATNIP project details. Understand its aims, the Principal Investigator's vision, and how your skills can contribute. This shows genuine interest and helps you align your answers with their goals.
✨Prepare for Methodological Questions
Expect questions about recent methodological advances in political science research. Brush up on current trends in survey design and text data analysis, and be ready to discuss how you would apply these in your role.
✨Showcase Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with others, be ready to share examples of past collaborative projects. Highlight your ability to work independently while also being a team player, as this is crucial for success in this position.