Research Fellow (144523-0126)

About the Role  

For informal enquiries, please contact Nikoleta Jones, Professor at Nikoleta.Jones@warwick.ac.uk

In this role, you will lead the development, testing, and refinement of an online social impact assessment platform (SOCIAT) as part of a European Research Council (ERC) Proof of Concept project.

You will build and extend a web-based application with user authentication, dashboards, survey and questionnaire functionality, data visualisation, and automated reporting features.

You will work from an existing prototype and validated research framework, collaborating closely with the Principal Investigator and project team to translate research methods into a robust, user-friendly digital tool that can be used by conservation practitioners, policymakers, and other stakeholders worldwide.

The post offers a rare opportunity to work at the interface of computer science, data-driven innovation, and real-world policy impact.

The successful candidate will play a central role in transforming world-leading ERC-funded research into a fully functional, scalable digital platform for social impact assessment in conservation and nature restoration projects.

The post also offers exposure to innovation and commercialisation pathways, including interaction with Warwick Innovations and engagement with NGOs, policymakers, and private-sector users.

This makes it an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in applied research, research software engineering, or future careers spanning academia, industry, and impact-driven spin-outs.

Flexible Working 

• We will consider applications for employment on a part-time or other flexible working basis (e.g. job share), despite the position being advertised as full-time.

About You  

You are a motivated and technically strong computer scientist or software developer who enjoys building robust, user-centred digital tools that address complex societal challenges.

You are comfortable working across the full web development stack and enjoy translating user needs into practical, elegant technical solutions.

 You will bring strong skills in web application development (back-end and front-end), alongside an eye for intuitive UX design across desktop and mobile platforms.

You are able to work independently, manage competing priorities, and communicate effectively with colleagues from non-technical backgrounds.

While the role is primarily software engineering-focused, it also includes aspects of data visualisation, and how digital tools can support evidence-based decision-making.

An interest in social impact, sustainability, conservation, or policy-facing research is highly valued, but direct prior experience in these areas is not essential.

For details on the experience and skills required, please refer to the job description by clicking the 'Apply' button above. 

PhD Status

If you are near submission of your PhD, or have not yet had it conferred, any offers of employment will be made at Research Assistant level, at the highest spinal point of pay grade 5 (£34,610 per annum).

Upon receipt of evidence confirming the successful award of your PhD, you will be promoted to Research Fellow, at the lowest spinal point of grade 6 (£35,608 per annum).

CLOSING DEADLINE: Sunday 18th January 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time)

Full details of the duties and selection criteria for this role can be found in the vacancy advert on the University of Warwick's jobs pages. You will be routed to this when you click on the 'Apply' button.

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