Postdoctoral Researcher

Location: Oxford – Department of Social Policy and Intervention

About the role

The Department of Social Policy and Intervention is seeking a Postdoctoral researcher to join a team working on the Oxford Martin Programme on Child Resilience in Climate Change, a major interdisciplinary initiative bringing together world‑leading expertise in social policy, climate science, computational statistics, and global health. 

Reporting to Professor Lucie Cluver, you will lead and contribute to quantitative research examining how climate shocks — particularly heat and drought — influence childhood sexual violence and related outcomes across multiple African countries. 

You will work with large‑scale, geocoded datasets linked to high‑resolution climate data, applying advanced statistical and quasi‑causal methods to uncover pathways, heterogeneity, and protective factors. The role is grounded in quantitative social science, with a strong emphasis on policy relevance, interpretability, and real‑world impact. 

About you

You will hold, or be close to completion of, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant field and have strong expertise in quantitative research methods, including regression modelling and the analysis of large‑scale survey data. Experience working with nationally representative datasets is essential, as is the ability to link survey data with climate or environmental datasets and work confidently with geospatial and spatiotemporal data. Candidates should also have knowledge of research on violence against children, gender-based violence, or related social outcomes, a track record of contributing to academic outputs, excellent communication skills, and experience working in African contexts. 

The Department is committed to fostering an environment of equality, diversity and inclusion. You will be based in Oxford as your normal place of work and spend a minimum of 2 days per week in the office, however there is opportunity for remote working. 

The Department of Social Policy and Intervention holds a Bronze Athena Swan Award which demonstrates our commitment towards advancement of gender equality in higher education and research institutions: equal opportunities, representation and success for all. 

How to apply 

As part of your application you will be required to upload a CV and supporting statement, along with the name and contact details of two referees. The supporting statement should explain how you meet each of the essential selection criteria for the post using clear examples. This may include experience and skills gained in employment, education or during career breaks (such as time out for dependents). Please DO NOT attach any other documents to your application as these will not be considered. 

Further information, including how to apply, is available via the 'Apply' button above. Any further enquires may be directed to hrteam@spi.ox.ac.uk. 

Only online applications received by 12.00 noon on 15th June 2026 will be considered. Interviews are expected to be held on 6th July 2026.

Advert information