RiSC+ Research Fellow - Complexity Science

This post is a critical role, and as such, successful applicants will have responsibilities in independent research, research planning and reporting and for collaboration with project partners.

The post is part of the ReImagining Supply Chains Network Plus (RiSC+ Network) project, whose main aim is to model and reimagine supply chains across the UK in food, critical minerals and fashion. The RiSC+ Network will offer evidence that exposes vulnerabilities, remedies current risks and demonstrates future potential, ultimately helping to empower the UK to move towards more resilient and secure supply chains.

About the person:

You will be a highly productive, ambitious and collaborative member of the RISC+ team assisting in the development of research proposals and the planning and delivery of the research activity specifically in Modelling UK Supply Chains as complex systems for resilience.

You will take responsibility for conceptualising and mapping these supply chains as complex adaptive systems, with focus on

(a) identifying current and potential contextual and endogenous vulnerabilities, challenges and risks to the resilience and security of these supply chains, and

(b) understanding cascading risks, impacts and trade-offs across the environment, society and economy. This will entail intense engagement with the research team, research partners, and the main actors/stakeholders of these supply chains. You will also collaborate with other members of the research team responsible for developing digital twins and simulation models, helping them to operationalise elements of the systems maps into their models.

We are interested in adding to our team a researcher interested in systems thinking and systems mapping methods, and capable of dialoguing with those leading the simulation model work.

Essential criteria:

• Hold at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject area (e.g., Business, Social Science,Engineering, Computer Science).
• Have, or be about to obtain, a relevant PhD in a relevant subject area (e.g., Business, Social Science,Engineering, Computer Science). (Candidates about to receive their PhD should provide proof that their viva is scheduled within two months).

Recent relevant research experience to include:

• Demonstrable experience in the use of Complexity Science, Systems Thinking, Systems Mapping, or SystemsModelling methods relevant to the research project.
• Demonstrable experience in conducting interviews and/or facilitating workshops with a range of stakeholdersto inform systems models.
• A proven track record of using relevant techniques to carry out analyses, critical evaluations, and interpretationsof data as relevant to the research project.

To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information on our website.

Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.

What we offer:

Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health. You can find more detail on all of this and more on our website.

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