Research Fellow

Transformational Coaching for Employment: Identity Formation Among Indian Youth

Join an exciting Leverhulme Trust–funded research project at the University of Southampton exploring how coaching for elite employment shapes the identities, aspirations, and social mobility of young people in India.

Situated within the sociology of education, this innovative project focuses on coaching for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations—one of the most competitive routes into prestigious public sector careers in India. Drawing on a novel conceptual framework of ‘coached habitus’, the research examines how non-formal education influences youth transitions, identity formation, and the education–employment nexus in contexts of inequality.

Adopting a multi-method qualitative design, the study combines ethnographic and visual methods, biographical interviews, and policy analysis. The project aims to generate internationally significant research outputs alongside meaningful policy and public engagement.

About the role

The Research Fellow will play a central role in delivering this ambitious project. You will take a leading role in qualitative fieldwork and data collection in Delhi, including ethnographic observations, interviews, and visual documentation, and contribute across all stages of research, from design to dissemination.

You will work closely with Dr Achala Gupta and will be supported to develop an internationally competitive research profile. The role offers opportunities to co-author publications, lead elements of project outputs, present at major international conferences, and engage with policy stakeholders.

About you 

We are looking for an ambitious early-career researcher with:

Essential attributes include:

• A PhD (completed or near completion) or equivalent professional qualifications and experience in Sociology, Education, Social Policy, or a related discipline
• Expertise in qualitative research methods (e.g. interviews, ethnography)
• Strong interest in sociology of education, youth transitions, and/or social inequalities
• Experience of conducting independent research and data analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Desirable attributes include:

• Experience of research in Indian cities (e.g., Delhi)
• Familiarity with shadow education, coaching, or non-formal education
• Experience with visual or innovative qualitative methods
• An emerging publication profile

What we can offer you

• A leading role in a high-profile Leverhulme-funded project
• Opportunities for high-quality publication and international conference participation
• Mentoring and career development within a supportive research environment
• Engagement with policy and global research communities
• Integration into a vibrant interdisciplinary research culture

The University of Southampton is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

We offer a generous benefits package, including a comprehensive pension scheme, flexible working options, and access to excellent health and wellbeing facilities.

Application

With your application, please include the following: a 1-page cover letter addressing how you meet the selection criteria detailed in the Job Description and Person Specification, a 2-page CV including a publication list, and a draft of your academic writing.

Advert information