Postdoctoral Research Associate - Cultures of Ecotechnology

Role Description

Research Centre and Department

The Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity is a research centre of academics from a wide range of disciplines collaborating  to increase knowledge of how the relationship between humanity and the natural world is changing, and how we might maintain and develop a sustainable Earth and bring about positive change. The position is linked to the Department of English and Related Literature, and will be line managed by Peter Sands (English) with mentorship from Helen Smith (English). 

Role

This role is part of the project Ecotechnology and the Futures of Biodiversity led by Peter Sands. The project investigates twentieth century histories of ecotechnology alongside its representation in literary fiction, film, and other cultural texts. Theorising ecotechnology at its intersection with discourses of race, gender, indigeneity, sexuality, and species, the project examines how cultural imaginaries of ecotechnology reconfigure its existing frameworks (e.g. green capitalism) and reframe how we imagine the futures of biodiversity in the Anthropocene. 

Key responsibilities include:

• To plan, coordinate and undertake a research project that focuses on one aspect of ecotechnology’s twentieth century history and its role and representation in literature, film, or other cultural material. This will include focussing on a particular discourse or example of technology (e.g. de-extinction; petroculture) and investigating its relationship to biodiversity futures via cultural analysis.
• To write up research findings and disseminate through publications, seminars and conference presentations, and through outreach activities. 
• Facilitate Centre objectives through development of ongoing interdisciplinary research, and identification of possible new areas of research. 

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• PhD in a relevant discipline and field (e.g. ecocriticism; animal studies; twentieth century/contemporary literature and/or film).
• Knowledge in the cultural and historical contexts of ecotechnology, and in the broader field of environmental humanities. 
• Competency in methodologies relevant to research into the cultures and/or histories of ecotechnology. 
• Ability to develop research objectives , projects and proposals for own and joint research, with the assistance of a mentor if required.
• Highly developed communication skills to engage effectively with a wide ranging audience, both orally and in writing, using a range of media.
• Ability to write up research work for publication in high profile journals and competency in presenting work at conferences/other appropriate events.

Applicants are requested to provide a short outline (max. 1 page; font size 11) describing their proposed approach to one or more of the research goals. The focus of the work will be developed collaboratively on appointment. 

Interview date: June 2026. The post must commence by 30th Sept 2026. 

For informal enquiries: please contact peter.sands@york.ac.uk 

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview. Read more about the University of York’s commitments under the Disability Confident scheme.

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