Postdoctoral Research Associate - Civic Education

Applications are invited for the post of Postdoctoral Research Associate - Civic Education in the Department of Drama, Theatre and Dance at Royal Holloway, University of London.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Horizon Europe-funded project CIVIC STAGE, led by Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (HVL). The project brings together universities, public authorities, NGOs and umbrella organisations from across Europe and New Zealand to explore how participatory theatre and digital practices can equip young people to become active and engaged citizens.

The 0.4 FTE nature of this post suits early career researchers seeking flexibility alongside other commitments. The successful candidate will gain valuable experience of large-scale collaborative research, international networking, and interdisciplinary knowledge exchange across theatre, education and digital innovation.

Working closely with the Principal Investigator and the Royal Holloway research team, the postholder will contribute to the development of an evidence-based framework for citizenship education. Key responsibilities include: reviewing existing research literature and case studies of citizenship education, including drama and theatre-driven approaches; organising and running focus groups with young people, educators, policymakers and other stakeholders; coordinating the development and pilot implementation of eight training modules in non-formal and informal settings; collecting and analysing data from pilots; developing assessment tools for measuring long-term impact; managing ethics applications; and disseminating findings through publications, conferences and advocacy events.

We welcome applications from candidates with expertise in civic education, theatre and performance studies, participatory arts research, educational research, or related fields. We are particularly interested in applicants who can demonstrate knowledge of drama and theatre-driven approaches to citizenship education and experience of research with disadvantaged or diverse communities.

You will hold a PhD in a relevant discipline or be close to completion, with demonstrable expertise in qualitative, quantitative and participatory research methods. Experience of collaborative and co-designed research with cultural and educational organisations is essential. The successful candidate will have excellent communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multi-agency, international environment. You will have experience of analysing and writing up research for diverse audiences and contributing to high-quality publications. Experience of contributing to research bids would be welcome.

In return we offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:

The post is based in Egham, Surrey and within commuting distance from London.

For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Dr. Aneta Mancewicz by email at: aneta.mancewicz@rhul.ac.uk

For queries on the application process the Human Resources Department can be contacted by email at: recruitment@rhul.ac.uk

Royal Holloway recognises the importance of helping its employees balance their work and home life by offering flexible working arrangements. We are happy to consider a request for flexible working for this post including remote working and compressed working hours.

Closing Date: 23:59, 10 July 2026  

Interview Dates: 23 and 24 July 2026

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