Research Associate/Fellow (Chinese Development) (Fixed Term) (SOC240625)

Karlstad University; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Nottingham is seeking a Research Associate/Fellow to contribute to a study on Chinese development. The role involves conducting independent fieldwork, developing research objectives, and collaborating with a research team. A relevant PhD degree or nearing completion is required, along with excellent communication and analytical skills. The position is full-time on a fixed-term contract with potential for extension.

Qualifications

• Candidates should have a relevant PhD degree or nearing completion in development studies or related fields.
• Clear evidence of sufficient breadth or depth of research methodologies.
• Knowledge of property rights and land policy is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support the Principal Investigator in developing research objectives and proposals.
• Conduct independent fieldwork in the area of China’s rural-urban transition.
• Write up research work for published outcomes.

Skills

Excellent oral and written communication skills

Ability to conduct independent fieldwork

Ability to collaborate with others

Analytical ability for conceptual thinking

Practical experience in research methodologies

Education

Relevant PhD degree or nearing completion

Job description

Research Associate/Fellow (Chinese Development) (Fixed Term) (SOC240625)

We are a pioneering institution that provides an exceptional research-led education for 45,000 students from over 150 countries.

Applications are invited for the position of Research Associate/Fellow on Chinese development to contribute to an ERC-supported study at the Nottingham University Business School (NUBS). The purpose of this role will be to support the Principal Investigator in developing research objectives and proposals and conducting fieldwork research in the area of China’s rural‑urban transition. The post holder will be expected to undertake independent fieldwork and research, as well as working as part of a team – which includes using (qualitative and quantitative) methodologies appropriate to the type of research – and will be responsible for writing up their work to contribute to published outcomes. The successful candidate will be part of an internationally‑leading research team and be responsible for various tasks, including conducting surveys and interviews, publishing articles, and supporting scientific networks.

Candidates should have a relevant PhD degree (or nearing completion) in development studies, human geography, rural sociology, anthropology, or political science; excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate with clarity on complex information; clear evidence of sufficient breadth or depth of research methodologies to work in the research area; ability to contribute to method improvement; analytical ability to facilitate conceptual thinking, innovation and creativity; ability to build relationships and collaborate with others, internally and externally; practical experience of applying the specialist skills approaches required for the role. Knowledge of property rights, (informal) settlements, mining, natural resources and/or land policy is strongly preferred.

The post is a full time position (36.25 hours per week) initially offered on a 1‑year fixed term contract with possibility of extension.

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to [email protected]. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.

Closing Date: 14 Nov 2025
Category: Research and Teaching (R&T)