Research Associate (Systems for Public Service Reform)

The School of Sociology and Criminology at Manchester Metropolitan is one of the largest in the UK; with 85 members of staff and over 1500 students. We deliver undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy including a Masters in Public Administration (MPA).

The Department produces high-quality teaching and high-quality research, with a strong focus on applied, empirical social science. Our success in achieving above sector student satisfaction demonstrates our commitment to excellent, student-centred learning. In the REF21 we were rated top 15 for research power in both UoA20 and UoA21; our research is impactful, interdisciplinary and socially engaged.  

It is home to the Policy Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU) specialising in evaluation and informing policy development. One of the areas in which unit has growing expertise in is Public Service Reform and Relational Public Services where this role will be based.

About the Role:

The department is looking to appoint a Researcher in System for Public Service Reform (15-month fixed term) with expertise in information systems 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; information systems practice and service provision in public services; or sociotechnical organisational change.

We are looking for a highly motivated Information Systems/Social Researcher with a strong commitment to excellence in research 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. 

About the Candidate:

The postholder will have completed a PhD in Sociology/Social Policy/Information Systems 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/information systems
• 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 submit your up-to-date CV and covering letter (of no more than 2 pages) via our application portal.

For an informal discussion about this role please contact Liz Cain (l.cain@mmu.ac.uk) Head of School or Rob Wilson (rob.wilson@mmu.ac.uk) Professor of Digital Social Innovation and member of the Policy Evaluation Research Unit (PERU).

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.