Research Associate

at  Leicester

ABOUT YOU

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline and possess experience in qualitative research methods and analytical techniques. Experience in researching sensitive subject areas or working with marginalised communities is essential. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, along with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team.
Familiarity with policing or experience in research related to the police is desirable. A track record of contributing to peer-reviewed journal papers or equivalent publications, as well as experience in communicating research to public and professional audiences, will be advantageous.
The University of Leicester prides itself on the diversity of its student population and on being an inclusive employer. We encourage applications from candidates who represent the diversity of our student population, local communities and wider society. In particular, we welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, as this is a staff group currently underrepresented in the University.

We are seeking a Research Associate to join the Department of Criminology, Sociology and Social Policy. This role is integral to an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC)-funded project titled ‘Being Blue: An Examination of the Lived Experience of Minority Ethnic Police Officers’. The project employs an innovative, participant-led methodology to explore the experiences of minority ethnic police officers within policing and the police workplace.
As a Research Associate, you will collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator and the research team to collect and analyse qualitative data, contributing to the generation of new, co-produced knowledge. Your responsibilities will include leading specific research activities, maintaining regular communication with research participants and stakeholders, and disseminating findings through academic publications and presentations at national conferences. Additionally, you will engage in knowledge exchange events and support the production of impact outputs, such as a short film and public exhibition.