Anthropology Research Associate

3 weeks ago

Durham, Durham, United Kingdom Durham University Full time
About Durham University


Durham University stands as a premier institution recognized for its exceptional teaching and research capabilities, offering a welcoming environment and a distinctive historical backdrop.

As one of the leading universities in the UK, Durham provides an extraordinary platform for career development.

The University is situated in a picturesque historic city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes.

Our esteemed scholars and researchers from diverse backgrounds are addressing global challenges and positively impacting lives.


We are committed to empowering our staff to achieve remarkable accomplishments at Durham, which in turn enables them to contribute significantly to the world.

Being part of Durham encompasses more than just the institution's success; it involves enhancing the prosperity of the city, county, and community.


Our University Strategy is anchored in three core pillars: research, education, and an enriched student experience, complemented by a strong sense of community and a commitment to inspiring others to realize their potential.


We aspire for our University to be a space where individuals can express their true selves, regardless of their identity or background.

Together, we honor diversity, appreciate one another, and take collective responsibility for fostering an inclusive community that is respectful and equitable for all.


Discover more about the advantages of working at Durham University and the experience of living in the Durham area on our information page.

About the Department


We are among the largest Anthropology Departments in the UK, uniquely integrating Social Anthropology, Evolutionary Anthropology, and Anthropology of Health.

Our graduates have the opportunity to delve into the full spectrum of Anthropology or specialize in specific sub-disciplines.

We are the sole UK department offering a residential field course (in both domestic and international locations) to all our undergraduate students.

In the recent REF 2021, 45% of our research was classified as world-leading, and we currently hold the 23rd position in the QS World University Rankings.

About the Role


This position is a one-year research role funded by the National Institute of Health Research's School for Public Health Research.

We are looking for either a Grade 7 PhD holder or a Grade 6 graduate to fill this position.

The project, COAST (Evaluating COastal rural communities' Active and Sustainable Travel), employs an ethnographic methodology to investigate responses to active and sustainable travel initiatives in rural and coastal regions.

The methodologies utilized may include geonarratives, go-along interviews, and photo-elicitation interviews.

The successful candidate will be based at Durham and will conduct intensive fieldwork in the eastern part of the region, collaborating closely with a researcher from another institution who will be conducting fieldwork in a different area.

Your line manager will be the Principal Investigator, and you will also collaborate with other esteemed faculty members from related departments.

Key Responsibilities for Grade 6 Research Assistant:

  • Document and present research findings clearly and accurately to supervising bodies.
  • Analyze or conduct foundational research by applying existing methodologies in alignment with project objectives.
  • Address challenges that may hinder research goals by discussing with the Principal Investigator and proposing innovative solutions.
  • Contribute to the planning and execution of fieldwork.
Key Responsibilities for Grade 7 Postdoctoral Associate:

  • Prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs to various audiences, including academic and non-academic stakeholders.
  • Publish high-quality research outputs, including papers for peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.
  • Assist in developing research objectives and proposals.
  • Conduct both individual and collaborative research as part of the overall project.
  • Address challenges affecting research objectives by discussing with the Principal Investigator and proposing innovative solutions.
  • Plan and manage personal research activities.
  • Provide training in research techniques to peers and students as appropriate.
Common Responsibilities:

  • Convey complex technical material to team members through presentations and discussions, leading to research paper submissions.
  • Collaborate with research colleagues and establish internal and external contacts to enhance knowledge and foster future research collaborations.
  • Contribute to a collegial and respectful working environment that is inclusive and welcoming.
  • Engage in broader citizenship to support the department and the wider discipline.
  • Participate in professional development opportunities through teaching programs or departmental committees.
  • Work with community organizations to recruit study participants.
  • Collect data using ethnographic methods, focusing on everyday journeys and responses to travel interventions.


In both roles, the post-holder will work on a research project led by another colleague, contributing to the advancement of the project through the development of research ideas and protocols.

This position is fixed-term due to funding constraints, concluding when the project ends.

Benefits of Working at Durham

Joining Durham University comes with a competitive salary and a range of exceptional benefits, including:

  • Generous annual leave (27 days for Grade 6 and 30 days for Grade 7) plus public holidays.
  • Closure of the University between Christmas and New Year.
  • Access to a comprehensive pension scheme.
  • Support for various commuting options, including parking and cycle schemes.
  • Commitment to professional and personal development with a wide range of courses and qualifications.
  • Health and wellbeing support, including discounted gym memberships.
  • On-site nursery and children's clubs during holidays.
  • Family-friendly policies, including generous maternity and adoption leave.
  • Opportunities for staff volunteering in the local community.
  • Discounts through our benefits portal for various retailers and services.
  • Salary sacrifice schemes for tax savings on benefits.
  • Relocation assistance for new staff, including help with housing and schooling.
Durham University’s Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion


We strive to create an open and inclusive environment where everyone can achieve their full potential, reflecting the diversity of the global community.

Equality, diversity, and inclusion are integral to our strategy and operations.

We actively work towards fostering a supportive and inclusive community for all staff and students.

We encourage applications from under-represented groups, including individuals with disabilities and those from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

We are committed to ensuring fair treatment throughout the recruitment process and will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates as needed.

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