Research Associate (Public Service Reform)

Manchester Metropolitan University; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university in Manchester is seeking a Researcher in Public Service Reform for an 18-month term. The role demands a PhD in Sociology or Social Policy, with a focus on evaluation research. Candidates should possess strong collaborative skills and a commitment to professional development. The university promotes inclusivity and celebrates diversity, encouraging applications from all backgrounds and communities.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Professional development opportunities

Mentorship programs

Qualifications

• Completed a PhD in a relevant discipline.
• Experience in research with emphasis on evaluation.
• Publication portfolio and experience in funded research projects preferred.

Responsibilities

• Research active in evaluation and social policy.
• Contributing to policy, governance and practice.
• Working with diverse communities and knowledge application.

Skills

Research expertise

Public service reform evaluation

Collaboration and initiative

Commitment to professional development

Education

PhD in Sociology/Social Policy or relevant field

Job description

About the Role:

The department is looking to appoint a Researcher in Public Service Reform (18-month fixed term) with expertise in evaluation and social policy research. This role will be based in PERU and will cover a range of activity working in the Public Service Reform and Relational Public Services portfolio.

PERU is a multi-disciplinary research unit based within the School of Sociology and Criminology that works in a range of contexts, with a diverse range of communities and applying knowledge to processes and interventions in policy and practice. PERU has an international reputation in the field of evaluation design and innovation across a range of social policy areas including education, probation, employment and more recently public service reform. The team has a strong methodological focus that seeks to policy futures through collective and creative methodologies. We specialise in a range of evaluation methodologies. The postholder will be research active within the field of evaluation and/or social policy research on one or more of the following areas, theory development, methodological innovation; professional practice and service provision; or organisational change.

We are looking for a highly motivated Social Researcher with a strong commitment to excellence in evaluation methods and continuous professional development; someone who has a strong emerging research profile in their area of specialism who can contribute to our burgeoning research portfolio.

The postholder will have completed a PhD in Sociology/Social Policy or other associated field, have experience of research, specialising in any aspect of evaluation research. A publication portfolio and previous experience of developing and working on funded research projects would also be an advantage. The postholder will draw on their research to make a significant contribution to policy, governance and practice.

About you:

Essential Skills:

• A good first degree together with a PhD in a relevant discipline
• Background in research with specific and current expertise in the field public service reform/evaluation
• Experience working in teaching and/or research teams that require collaborative working and initiative taking.

Please note that in some circumstances, we will consider applicants who do not have these qualifications but are committed to obtaining them.

To apply – Please attach your CV and covering letter to the online portal detailing how you meet the personal specification.

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.