Postdoctoral Research Associate

The post
Applications are invited for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate to work alongside Dr Chris Sandal-Wilson as part of the ERC Starting Grant-funded project PSYPARTITIONS.

This full-time post is available for three years, from 1 June 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter) based at our Exeter Streatham campus.

PSYPARTITIONS explores the politics of psychiatry in partition contexts across the twentieth century. The project aims to transform how we understand the history of psychiatry and mental health during some of the most cataclysmic events of the twentieth century, through a focus on three core themes: the experiences of psychiatric patients and their families; the politicisation of responsibility for their care; and the role played by psychiatric knowledge within conflict. More information about the project can be found at psypartitions.com.

The successful candidate will be responsible for research into one of the project’s three main case studies: the Partition of India in the 1940s.

The PDRA will undertake original research into psychiatry and mental health in their specific case study using appropriate methods, which may include archival, oral historical, and / or ethnographic research. They are expected to communicate their research findings orally, in writing, and through publication, and to work with the rest of the project team to realise comparative insights about psychiatry and partition in the twentieth century more broadly.

There is scope for the successful candidate to develop their own distinctive approach to researching this case study, within the parameters of the project as a whole.

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates who can evidence that they have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria:

1. A PhD (completed or nearing completion) in a relevant humanities or social sciences field, especially history, anthropology, or science & technology studies.
2. Expertise related to the specific case study context, including demonstrable ability to undertake research in relevant language(s).
3. Experience of appropriate methods such as archival, oral historical, or ethnographic research.
4. Ability to use initiative and take ownership of developing, conducting, and publishing research into the specific case study, within the parameters of the broader project.
5. Excellent writing and communication skills.
6. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work collegially as part of a team.
7. Fluency in English.

Desirable criteria:

1. Prior experience of undertaking archival or ethnographic research directly relevant to the case study context.
2. Expertise in research into psychiatry and mental health within the humanities and social sciences.
3. Experience of organising events such as research conferences; of preparing proposals and applications; and of public engagement and impact beyond the academy.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to panel interview, and will be asked to present on their recent research, motivations for applying, and vision for researching their case study.

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification (available on the university's website, accessed by the 'Apply' button) for full details of this role.

Further information
For further information please contact Dr Chris Sandal-Wison by e-mailing c.w.sandal-wilson@exeter.ac.uk.

The closing date for completed applications is 2 March 2026. Interviews are expected to take place across the second half of March.

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