At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to research sustainable infrastructures in the Amazon and explore political ecology.
- Company: University of St Andrews, a leader in research and inclusivity.
- Benefits: 34 days annual leave, hybrid working, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive environment focused on equality, diversity, and career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainability while collaborating with diverse researchers.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields and expertise in qualitative research, especially in Latin America.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Applications are sought for a committed Political Ecology Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to work with Dr Jessica Hope (University of St Andrews) on the European Research Council-funded project "Roads to Sustainability: exploring the infrastructures of a sustainable future." As part of a team of 2 post-doctoral researchers, 16 Indigenous researchers, and the PI, you will investigate road building in the Western Amazon and the emancipatory possibilities of alternative infrastructures. Specifically, you will work on infrastructural-ecological-citizenship in Iquitos, Peru.
The primary research duties will be to:
- Design and implement research on infrastructural-ecological-citizenship in Iquitos, Peru – an Amazonian city with no connecting road.
- Conduct data collection, analysis, and dissemination of research findings through high-quality publications.
- Collaborate with the project team and project partners on findings and outputs, contributing to developing a new form of political ecology, infrastructural political ecology.
- Co-plan and co-deliver a hybrid research event between Latin America and the UK.
- Contribute to the project’s web page and social media accounts.
More broadly, the successful applicant will also be expected to:
- Maintain a strong focus on publishing in leading journals and presenting research at relevant conferences and workshops.
- Contribute to the school's academic life, including research groups and supporting project-related events.
As a PDRF in the School of Geography and Sustainable Development, you will join a research-active school and be supported by the PI in your career progression. The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in Political Ecology, Human Geography, Social Anthropology, Development Studies, History, Philosophy, International Relations, or a related discipline; expertise in conducting qualitative research, ideally in Latin America; advanced Spanish and English language skills; and excellent research communication and management skills are essential.
The post is available for 24 months starting 01 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Employees of the University have access to a wide range of staff benefits, including:
- Annual leave of 34 days, plus 5 public holidays
- Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions
- A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies
- Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services
- Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel
- Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff, access to training and development opportunities including LinkedIn Learning, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme
Further details of the project can be found by contacting Dr Jessica Hope (jch31@st-andrews.ac.uk).
At St Andrews, equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to who we are and form a core pillar of our University Strategy. We are committed to creating a fair, inclusive and supportive workplace, reflected in our participation in national diversity charters and awards, including Athena Swan, Carer Positive and the Race Equality Charter. We particularly welcome applications from people from Black, Asian, minority ethnic and minority religions backgrounds and from LGBTQ+ and disabled people.
Closing Date: 13 July 2026
Interview Date: 29 July 2026
School/Unit: School of Geography & Sustainable Development
Research Fellow: Political Ecology of Infrastructural-Ecological-Citizenship employer: University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises equality, diversity, and employee well-being. As a Research Fellow in Political Ecology, you will benefit from generous annual leave, a supportive hybrid working environment, and numerous professional development opportunities, all while contributing to groundbreaking research in the heart of a historic academic institution. Join a dedicated team committed to exploring sustainable futures in a collaborative setting that values your contributions and fosters your career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Fellow: Political Ecology of Infrastructural-Ecological-Citizenship
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your field, especially those connected to the project. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research chops! Prepare a mini-presentation or a portfolio of your work to share during interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your expertise and passion for political ecology.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay active on social media! Engage with the project’s web page and share relevant content. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you connect with other researchers and potential collaborators.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application, and it’s the best way to ensure it gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your application shine.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Fellow: Political Ecology of Infrastructural-Ecological-Citizenship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Research Fellow in Political Ecology. We want to see how you can contribute to the project, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant expertise!
Show Off Your Research Skills:Since this role involves a lot of research, be sure to emphasise your experience in conducting qualitative research, especially in Latin America. We’re keen to see examples of your previous work and how it relates to infrastructural-ecological-citizenship.
Communicate Clearly:Your written application should reflect your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language, and make sure to proofread for any errors. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of St Andrews
✨Know Your Research
Dive deep into the project 'Roads to Sustainability' and understand its core themes. Familiarise yourself with the political ecology concepts and how they relate to infrastructural-ecological-citizenship, especially in the context of Iquitos, Peru. This will help you articulate your thoughts and show genuine interest during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your qualitative research experience, particularly any work you've done in Latin America. Highlight your advanced Spanish and English language skills, and be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated research findings in the past.
✨Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with a diverse team, think about examples that demonstrate your ability to collaborate. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the project's web page and social media accounts, as well as your ideas for co-planning the hybrid research event.
✨Engage with the Academic Community
Express your enthusiasm for contributing to the academic life at the School of Geography and Sustainable Development. Share your thoughts on publishing in leading journals and attending conferences, and how you plan to engage with research groups and support project-related events.
