Research Associate/Fellow (Fixed term)

We are looking for an organised, motivated, and adaptable social scientist who is passionate about the environment, nature, and biodiversity. A position is open for a postdoctoral researcher to join a new multi-disciplinary research team directed by Dr Richard Field, Associate Professor of Biogeography, School of Geography at the University of Nottingham. The role holder will work with and colleagues to support an interdisciplinary project funded by the Natural Environmental Research Council (NERC) and the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). The project is entitled ‘Developing a new co-designed decision support tool for biodiversity credits and investment’. The role holder will work alongside the team and support the delivery of a social science work package designed to gather stakeholder evaluation of a Biodiversity Credit Tool. 

The role provides an exciting opportunity to work with experienced researchers from different disciplines and liaise with a wide range of stakeholders who are taking a leading role in shaping the future of biodiversity credit standards in the UK and wider. The University of Nottingham offers a wide range of training and opportunities to researchers at all career levels.

The successful candidate will be a highly motivated post-doctoral scientist with relevant knowledge of the latest social sciences methodology and approaches and with passion to make a difference for the future of global biodiversity. Strong understanding of social science research methodologies, including qualitative (real-time observation, documentary analysis, interviewing) and quantitative (survey design and analysis) approaches are essential. 

Applicants should be able to write to a consistently high standard, and to meet deadlines. A proven track record in conducting fieldwork and publishing in respected journals is desirable. Knowledge of and/or experience in biodiversity regulation and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) investment would be an advantage, as would experience of conducting interdisciplinary research and/or working in multidisciplinary teams. The successful applicant will be able to work well as part of a team, as well as independently, using their own initiative. Applicants should be committed to both taking advantage of this opportunity to further their career development in general and delivering on the goals and outcomes of this project in particular.

This position is offered on a fixed-term contract from 1 April 2023 until 31 March 2025. Hours are full time (36.25 hours per week). Job share arrangements may be considered. The role will be based in the School of Geography but will involve working closely with colleagues based in other schools (Biosciences and Economics) and other institutions. Flexibility to travel within the UK is also required. Funding is available for international travel costs. Candidates should apply with a CV and cover letter. We positively encourage applications from members of groups who are currently underrepresented in the department. 

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Richard Field (Geography), richard.field@nottingham.ac.uk, Dr Stacia Stetkiewicz (Biosciences), stacia.stetkiewicz@nottingham.ac.uk or Dr Bouwe Dijkstra (Economics), bouwe.dijkstra@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to these email addresses will not be accepted.

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