Anthropology Research Associate

3 weeks ago


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


Durham University stands as a globally recognized institution, renowned for its exceptional teaching and research capabilities. It offers a welcoming and supportive environment, situated in a city steeped in history and surrounded by picturesque landscapes.

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

The University is located in a historic city, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with breathtaking natural surroundings.

Our distinguished scholars and researchers are dedicated to addressing pressing global challenges and positively impacting communities.


We are committed to empowering our staff to achieve remarkable outcomes at Durham, which in turn enables them to make significant contributions to the world.

Being part of Durham is not solely about the University’s success; it is also about enhancing the prosperity of the city, county, and community.


Our strategic vision is anchored in three core areas: research, education, and enriching the student experience, all underpinned by a strong sense of community and the aspiration to inspire others to reach their full potential.


We strive to cultivate an environment where individuals can express their true selves, regardless of their identity or background.

Together, we celebrate diversity, value each other, 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 dedicated information page.

The Department of Anthropology


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

Our graduates benefit from a comprehensive exploration of Anthropology or the opportunity to specialize in specific sub-disciplines.

We are proud to be the only UK department offering a residential field course to all undergraduate students, with both domestic and international destinations.

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

The Position


This is a fixed-term researcher position for one year, funded by the National Institute of Health Research's School for Public Health Research.

We are looking for candidates at either Grade 7 with a PhD or Grade 6 graduates to fulfill this role.

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

The research methods will likely encompass geonarratives, go-along interviews, and photo-elicitation interviews.

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

Your direct supervisor will be the Principal Investigator, and you will also work alongside other esteemed faculty members.

Key Responsibilities for Grade 6 Research Assistant:

  • Document and present research findings clearly and accurately to relevant stakeholders.
  • Analyze and conduct foundational research by applying existing methodologies to meet project objectives.
  • Address challenges that may hinder research goals by collaborating with the Principal Investigator to devise innovative solutions.
  • Contribute to the planning and execution of fieldwork activities.
Key Responsibilities for Grade 7 Postdoctoral Associate:

  • Prepare and deliver presentations on research outputs to diverse audiences, including academic and non-academic stakeholders.
  • Publish high-quality research outputs, including submissions to peer-reviewed journals and presentations at conferences.
  • Assist in formulating research objectives and proposals.
  • Engage in both individual and collaborative research efforts as part of the overall project.
  • Tackle challenges affecting research objectives by discussing with the Principal Investigator and proposing creative solutions.
  • Plan and manage personal research activities effectively.
  • Provide training in research methodologies to peers and students as appropriate.
Common Responsibilities:

  • Convey complex technical material to colleagues through presentations and discussions, leading to the preparation of research papers for conferences and publications.
  • Collaborate with research colleagues and establish internal and external connections to enhance knowledge and foster future research partnerships.
  • Promote a collegial and respectful working environment that is inclusive and welcoming.
  • Participate in broader community engagement to support the department and the discipline.
  • Engage in ongoing professional development through teaching programs or departmental committees and attend relevant training courses.
  • Collaborate with community organizations to recruit study participants.
  • Collect data utilizing ethnographic methods, focusing on daily travel and responses to interventions.


In both roles, the post-holder will contribute to a research project led by another colleague, with the expectation of advancing the project through the development of their own research ideas and protocols.


This position is fixed-term for 12 months due to funding constraints, concluding when the project ends.


Benefits of Working at Durham University

In addition to a competitive salary, employees enjoy a range of excellent benefits, including:

  • Generous annual leave (27 days for Grade 6, 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 through a variety of training opportunities.
  • Health and wellbeing support, including discounted gym memberships.
  • Family-friendly policies, including generous maternity and adoption leave.
  • Opportunities for staff volunteering in the local community.
  • Discounts on various products and services through our benefits portal.
  • Assistance with relocation costs for new employees.
Durham University’s Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion


We aim to create an open and inclusive environment where all individuals can achieve their full potential. Our staff should reflect 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 underrepresented 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 as needed.



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