Research Fellow

The Constitution Society invites applications for a Research Fellowship dedicated to promoting the life and constitutional contributions of Richard Haldane (1856-1928). 

Richard Haldane had a profound impact on the British state, and consequently on the operation of the constitution as we understand it today. He served as both Lord Chancellor and the Secretary of State for War, but beyond this, he is considered one of the driving intellectual forces of liberalism at the beginning of the twentieth century. 

Working three days per week, the Research Fellow will be expected to conduct research on Haldane and initiate and manage a small project to begin to commemorate the centenary of his passing in 2028. This is an exciting opportunity for an early career scholar to shape an ambitious programme of research and public engagement. The Fellow will report to the Constitution Society’s Director of Research, based in Westminster. 

The Constitution Society is an independent educational foundation which works to promote public understanding of the UK constitution. We monitor constitutional developments and proposals for change, and assess them against core constitutional principles. 

Role: Research Fellow

Contract Type: Fixed-term, 12 months, commencing February 2026

Hours: Three days per week

Salary: £30,000 pro rata

Location: London

Key Responsibilities: 

• Conduct research on Richard Haldane and his legacy, especially from a constitutional perspective.
• Identify and liaise with individuals and groups that might participate in a commemoration of Haldane.
• Support and facilitate donor engagement.
• Draft educational materials and maintain project documentation.

Person Specification: 

• Postgraduate qualification (or equivalent experience) in a relevant field such as history, philosophy, law, or politics.
• Excellent communication skills including writing to an academic and publishable standard. 
• Strong organisational abilities.
• Experience of event planning, exhibitions, or public engagement.
• Demonstrable research skills, including archival work.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with senior academics and key stakeholders.

Anticipated Breakdown of Work (2026, subject to adjustment):

Task Area/ Percentage of Time

• Preparing educational materials/ 25%
• Reporting and administration/ 20%
• Identifying and coordinating with relevant parties/ 45%
• Archival and bibliographic research/ 10%

Applicants may be submitted by clicking the 'Apply' button

Fellowship Commencing: February 2026.

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