Research Fellow

This post is full time, 35 hours per week and is fixed term for 30 month.

We are looking for a post-doctoral researcher to work on a Leverhulme funded project exploring what lessons the past might hold for the diverse condition of urban neighbourhood living in Britain in the 21st century. Social and spatial encounters over time: Revisiting Katharine Buildings addresses vital questions about how people lived with difference in the past by exploring the history of a social housing initiative in Cartwright Street, East London. It explores how diversity and inequality were managed in two periods of high migration and urban population churn in the 19th and 20th centuries and will connect findings with contemporary studies. The goal is to contribute to current debates on integration and belonging by uncovering historical insights.

The project also aims to develop a framework for studying encounters with difference, and to disseminate findings through publications, a website, and social media activity. The research will involve liaising with relevant archives to conduct research, preparing and digitising appropriate material, mapping and analyse sources across different historical timeframes and assisting in social media dissemination and the design of a project website.

The post holder will have an understanding of historical perspectives on race/ethnicity, integration and belonging, and/or historical perspectives on neighbouring and community, and/or urban history and housing. They will have experience of conducting quantitative and qualitative analysis, preferably of historical documents relating to everyday lives and relationships. They will have excellent communication skills including both academic and lay accessible written and verbal communication.

To apply for this vacancy please click 'Apply' above. Further information can be found in the job description and person specification, which can be accessed through this link too.

At the University of Westminster, diversity, inclusion and equality of opportunity are at the core of how we engage with students, colleagues, applicants, visitors and all our stakeholders.

We are fully committed to enabling a supportive and safe learning and working environment which is equitable, diverse and inclusive, is based on mutual respect and trust, and in which harassment and discrimination are neither tolerated nor acceptable.

The University has adopted Smart Working principles to support and further our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion aims of being an inclusive, collaborative and flexible employer. Further details of Smart Working can be discussed at interview stage.

Closing date: midnight on 25 June 2025

Interviews are likely to be held on: a date to be confirmed

Administrative contact (for queries only): Recruitment@westminster.ac.uk

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