Postdoctoral Researcher

NUFFIELD COLLEGE – Centre for Social Investigation

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Researcher affiliated with the Centre for Social Investigation (CSI) at Nuffield College. The Centre, directed by Professor David Kirk, provides authoritative, non-partisan research on central social issues, and has a reputation as an independent and rigorous source of information and analysis. 

The Postdoctoral Researcher will engage in advanced study within the social sciences, broadly construed to include sociology, criminology, demography, social policy, public policy, public health, political science, and economics. She or he will undertake analysis and empirical research in collaboration with David Kirk, CSI staff, and project collaborators, contributing to one or more CSI projects, including: (1) analysis of the relationship between contemporary changes in neighbourhood conditions and crime, (2) analysis of the consequences of police use of force, and/or (3) examination of the causes and consequences of exposure to gun violence in the United States using a newly collected wave of the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods. The post-holder will prepare papers for publication in academic journals, present research outputs at conferences and workshops, and contribute to research impact in the public policy sphere by preparing briefing notes for policymakers and contributing to general media publications. She or he will contribute to the running of the Centre, including organising seminars and events and supporting the Centre’s communication and dissemination strategy.

Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in a relevant social science discipline (e.g. sociology, criminology, social policy, political science, or economics). They should have an emerging (national or international) publication record in peer-reviewed journals and leading publishers, commensurate with their career stage. Applicants should possess a strong foundation and demonstrable experience in the application of quantitative methods using advanced statistical modelling, including econometric methods, longitudinal analysis, and time series methods, and a high level of proficiency in relevant software including Stata and/or R.  They should have excellent oral and written communications skills, strong organisational skills, and exemplary interpersonal skills with the ability to work constructively and effectively both within a small research team and under their own initiative. Proficiency in data management (e.g. data linking) and the principles of open research; a background in the study of neighbourhood effects and neighbourhood change, and/or the life course; or experience with survey methods and issues with longitudinal designs would be an advantage.

The post is full-time and fixed-term for one year, starting on 1 November 2020 or as soon as possible thereafter. Applications from candidates who wish to take up the post on a part-time basis will also be considered. The appointment is potentially renewable, subject to funding. The salary will be in the range £32,817 to £40,322 per annum (pro-rated as appropriate). Benefits include free coffee, tea, and lunch in College. The post will be based at Nuffield College.

Further particulars and application instructions are available on the College website: https://www.nuffield.ox.ac.uk/media/4158/csi-pr-jd_july20.pdf

The closing date for applications is 5pm (UK time) on Tuesday 1 September 2020.

Nuffield College exists to promote excellence in education and research, and is an equal opportunities employer committed to equality and valuing diversity. Applications are particularly welcome from women, from disabled people, and from black and minority ethnic candidates, who are currently under-represented in posts in the College.