Postdoctoral Research Associate – Cultural Understandings of Biodiversity
University of York
Location: York, United Kingdom (University of York campus)
General Description:
The University of York is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity (LCAB), an interdisciplinary initiative dedicated to examining the complex relationships between human societies and biodiversity in the context of global environmental change.
This position will be based within the Department of Environment and Geography and involves close collaboration with researchers across humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The project focuses on exploring cultural understandings of biodiversity, including how different communities perceive, value, and interact with biodiversity across time and space.
The successful candidate will design and conduct independent research, employing interdisciplinary approaches to investigate cultural narratives, practices, and knowledge systems related to biodiversity. Responsibilities include contributing to collaborative research within LCAB, engaging with stakeholders and non-academic audiences, and disseminating findings through high-quality academic publications, conferences, and public engagement activities.
The role also includes contributing to the development of funding proposals and supporting the broader research objectives of the Centre. This is a full-time, fixed-term position, with an expected start date no later than 30 September 2026. The University of York is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.
Eligibility Criteria:
- PhD (awarded or submitted) in a relevant discipline such as environmental humanities, geography, anthropology, sociology, or related fields
Required Expertise/Skills:
- Strong interdisciplinary research background related to biodiversity, culture, and society
- Experience in qualitative research methods and/or humanities or social science approaches
- Ability to design and conduct independent research projects
- Evidence of, or potential for, high-quality academic publications
- Experience presenting research at academic or public forums
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate across disciplines and engage with diverse stakeholders
- Interest or experience in contributing to grant applications and research funding proposals
Salary Details:
£37,694 per year (Grade 6)
Application Deadline:
28 April 2026