Research Fellow in Social Psychology/Relationship Science

With over 150 years of history, the University of Southampton is a founding member of the Russell Group of research intensive Universities. As a community, we strive for inclusivity, as diversity is a strength. It makes us more creative and accelerates our impact on society. Through partnership, we aim to inspire communities working with us locally and globally to change the world for the better.

The Role

ESRC funded project: Dyadic Nostalgia in Couple Relationships

We invite applications for a Research Fellow to join a team of social psychologists working on the project Dyadic Nostalgia in Couple Relationships (ES/Z503642/1; fixed term contract for 12 months at 0.8 FTE). The team includes Professor Tim Wildschut (Southampton), Professor Constantine Sedikides (Southampton), Dr. Erica Hepper (Surrey), and Dr. Bridget Dibb (Surrey). The project is funded by the Economic and Social Research Council and will explore the role, dynamics, and potential uses of nostalgia in romantic couple relationships. The project includes a programme of dyadic studies. The start date is 2 February 2026 (negotiable).

Key Responsibilities

The post-holder will:

• Collaborate with investigators at the University of Southampton and University of Surrey on nostalgia in romantic couple relationships.
• Conduct laboratory research with couples (e.g., develop protocols, recruit participants, data collection and analysis).
• Contribute to dissemination via international conferences, and authorship on peer-reviewed publications.

The post-holder will be based in the School of Psychology at the University of Southampton. The School of Psychology is a vibrant and welcoming community based on the beautiful Highfield Campus. The post-holder will be a member of the Centre for Research on Self and Identity.

About you

The successful candidate will have:

• A doctoral degree (or near completion) in social psychology.
• Experience in a range of quantitative research methods, including laboratory experimentation.
• Strong statistical analysis skills.
• Good skills in organisation, attention to detail, ethics, communication, and a balance of working independently and collaboratively.
• A developing publication record commensurate with your level of career.

How to apply

Please apply with a CV and cover letter on the University of Southampton website. For informal inquiries, please contact Professor Tim Wildschut, School of Psychology, University of Southampton, R.T.Wildschut@soton.ac.uk.

Further details:

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants who support our mission of inclusivity.

Apply by 11.59 pm GMT on the closing date. For assistance contact Recruitment on +44(0)2380 592750 or recruitment@soton.ac.uk quoting the job number.

Advert information