University of Birmingham
Birmingham, United Kingdom

The University of Birmingham invites applications for a Research Fellow to join a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship (FLF) project titled Copper Perspectives (COPPER): Mineral Regimes, Geodiversity, and Ethical Extractivism in the Arctic Anthropocene. This fixed-term academic research role is based within the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences and addresses pressing questions about how copper mining influences the environments, cultures and everyday lives of Arctic Indigenous communities. The project situates copper not only as a material essential for the energy transition but also as a heritage object embedded in histories, ceremonial practices and local meaning systems. The successful candidate will contribute to long-term, comparative research across communities in the United States, Norway and Canada.

This interdisciplinary work combines Indigenous community-based research methodologies, socio-environmental analysis, and qualitative and quantitative data integration. A key part of the role involves coordinating community-based data collection using tools such as the Indigenous Sentinels Network (ISN) app, working collaboratively with Indigenous observers over extended monitoring periods in each research location. The Research Fellow will also analyse diverse qualitative materials including Indigenous narratives, museum collections, photographs and video documentation, guided by CARE principles and Indigenous Data Sovereignty protocols.

Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (PhD) in a relevant field such as human geography, social anthropology, Indigenous studies, area studies or related disciplines. Demonstrated experience in conducting community-based research and a strong understanding of relational and mixed methods, research ethics, Indigenous data governance, and CARE principles are essential. A track record of research outputs at a level appropriate to the candidate’s career stage is required.

Require expertise, skills
The role requires significant experience in Indigenous and community-engaged research methodologies, excellent analytical skills across qualitative and quantitative data, and the ability to manage complex, interdisciplinary research tasks. Experience with Arctic fieldwork and cross-national comparative research will strengthen an application, as will evidence of presenting research findings at national and international forums.

Salary details 
The position is offered on Grade 7 with a full-time starting salary range of £36,636 to £46,049 per annum, with the potential for progression in post to £48,822.

Application Deadline 
Applications close on 12 March 2026.

Application Link

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