Research Associate

Contract Type: Fixed Term - Ends 31/08/2026

The School of Psychology is seeking to hire a Research Associate with expertise conducting research in political psychology and managing large datasets to work on the project ‘The psychology of public policy: Inequality, immigration and international relations (PSYPOL)’, under the direction of Dr Nikhil Sengupta. In this role, you will be responsible for data management, data analysis, dissemination of findings with press releases, conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications.

It is expected that the successful applicant will be highly familiar with major theories and research in political psychology (from either a political science, social psychology, or related background), and will have extensive experience with quantitative research methods (in particular, multilevel and longitudinal modelling). Familiarity with experiments, experience sampling, and network analysis, as well experience in applying multiple methods to a given research question is desirable.

As a Research Associate you can expect to be involved in:

• developing, conducting and coordinating research as indicated in the grant proposal
• writing up research for publication
• helping manage the project’s largescale datasets
• manage own research and administrative duties

What will you bring to the role?

• a doctorate, or equivalent qualification in psychology (political psychology focus preferred), or related discipline
• excellent record of publications
• experience of managing large/complex datasets
• high degree of initiative, independence and self-motivation 

What we can offer in return:

As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:

• hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs) 
• 43 days' leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part-time staff)
• excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions
• corporate employee-funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health
• retailer and wellbeing discounts via Edenred
• on campus cinema/theatre, sports facilities, library, nursery (Canterbury) and food outlets 
• study while you work discounts, cycle to work scheme, local business discounts
• support in your development and wellbeing at all stages of employment, including an Employee Assistance Programme
• training and development opportunities at all levels
• on-site parking

The School of Psychology is a leading centre of research and education with a commitment to scientific excellence, a concern for tackling problems of contemporary relevance and a commitment to have positive impact. We are ambitious for our people, our communities and the region we serve – join us in making the world a better place. Visit our website for more on who we are: http://www.kent.ac.uk/about/

Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact peopleserviceshr@kent.ac.uk quoting reference number HSS-227-24.

Further details:   

Please note that we prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.

Applications must be made via the University’s online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.

The University of Kent values diversity and promotes equality at all levels.

Advert information