Research Associate in Sustainability

Vacancy terms: Full-time, fixed term contract to 31 October 2025

Hours per week: 37.5

Advert closes midnight on: 21 August 2024

About the role

In this position, you will conduct research to fully understand the barriers and limitations that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face in adopting Net Zero and carbon reduction initiatives. Your work will involve identifying best practices in the field and developing appropriate solutions. You will carry out qualitative, action-based, and survey research, and compile the findings into actionable insights for SME leaders. Additionally, you will produce academic outputs and help disseminate the research more broadly. This role also requires engaging with SME leaders and other stakeholders involved in the Leicestershire to Accelerate Net Zero (LCAN) project and throughout Leicestershire.

About you

With a PhD and research background in a relevant area, you will have experience of managing a substantial marketing research project, demonstrating excellent quantitative and qualitative data analysis skills. Practical market research or academic research experience is key, alongside knowledge of SPSS/R and NVivo software packages. Knowledge of academic journals in the field of sustainability and/or marketing is important as well as an interest in net zero /carbon reduction/environmental sustainability initiatives is desirable.

We are looking for someone with exceptional written and verbal communication skills to effectively communicate with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels. In addition, you will have excellent data analysis skills to interpret complex data, drawing actionable conclusions that contribute to the success of our projects. You will leverage your excellent IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office, to perform research and administrative activities efficiently.

You will be able to interpret regulations and policies, providing informed advice and guidance to support decision-making processes. We are looking for someone who works collaboratively and cooperatively with colleagues, showcasing team-working skills to achieve common goals. The ability to establish strong working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, industrial partners, and the general public through effective interpersonal skills are also key. 

Additional information

For informal enquiries, please contact Prof. Paul Baines on +44 116 229 7509 or via email at paul.baines@leicester.ac.uk

We anticipate that interviews will take place during week commencing 02 September 2024.

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.   

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world. 

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive. 

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

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