research scientist jobs

We are seeking a Research Associate/Fellow to join a new multi-disciplinary research team working across two projects that relate to Social and Ethical Dimensions of Agriculture and Animal Disease Management practice and policies.

The first project, PROBITY, is developing a Platform to Rate Organisms Bred for Improved Traits and Yield. The successful candidate will work closely with Dr Stacia Stetkiewicz, Assistant Professor of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, School of Biosciences at the University of Nottingham, and project partners at the British On Farm Innovation Network (BOFIN), using social science methods to understand barriers to uptake of precision bred crops in the UK. The second project focuses on developing an ethical framework for zoonotic disease management to support a One Health Strategy. Working with the University of Alaska Anchorage, this project is funded by National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The work for this project will involve literature analysis, expert interviews and the development of a Reuseable Learning Object (Ethics Training Module). The projects represent 50%:50% split across this role.

This role provides an exciting opportunity to work with experienced researchers and liaise with a wide range of stakeholders who are taking a leading role in shaping innovation and policies in their fields. The University of Nottingham also offers a wide range of training and opportunities to researchers at all career levels.

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher, with the relevant knowledge of the latest social sciences methodology and approaches and with a passion for social and ethical aspects of science research and practice who would value working on projects that aim to make a difference for the future of sustainable agriculture and One Health strategies.

Experience with qualitative research collection and analysis techniques, including at least one of the following: conducting data collection interviews, workshops, and/or textual analysis, is essential. Candidates must have knowledge or experience of applying GDPR, Ethical Conduct of Research and Responsible Research and Innovation guidelines in terms of data collection, analysis, and dissemination. The ability to write research papers and give presentations, and knowledge or experience of working with precision breeding, UK agriculture, related biotechnologies and/or Animal Disease Management or One Health are desirable requirements for candidates applying for this role.

Applicants must have (or be close to completion of) a PhD or equivalent in a relevant subject area.

The role will be based at the University of Nottingham in the School of Biosciences, Sutton Bonington Campus, but will involve working with colleagues based at partner institutions across the UK, Europe and USA. Flexibility to travel within the UK is required and possibly travel to Europe and USA.

This post is available on a fixed term basis for 10 months, hours of work are full time (36.25 hours). Job share arrangements may be considered.

Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Stacia Stetkiewicz, email stacia.stetkiewicz@nottingham.ac.uk or Kate Millar email kate.millar@nottingham.ac.uk. Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.