Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a Research Associate to work on narrative constructions of risk and risky behaviour, the deployment of risk narratives in carceral settings, and the impact of competing risk narratives on the interaction between individuals and state institutions. The successful candidate will be based in the Faculty of English, joining a project that seeks to ask how risk genres function in society.

The role holder will conduct independent and collaborative research into the cultural history of risk and responsibility, and the contemporary deployment of risk narratives in institutional, legal and creative practice, including autobiography, memoir, fiction and film. In addition, they will take a leading role in organising interdisciplinary talks and seminars with colleagues and stakeholders in literature, law, criminal justice, reproductive rights, mental health services and human rights, to develop a dialogue and framework for the analysis of the impact of risk genres on contemporary carceral practices and institutionalisation.

Applicants for the role based in the Faculty of English should have a Ph.D. in English Literature, History, or a related discipline in the Humanities or Social Sciences. They will have a strong interest in an aspect of risk and/or narrative genre within their discipline and beyond. Candidates should have excellent organisational skills and motivation, with the ability to manage their own time and to contribute to project organisation.

This role will be fixed term for three years.

In order for your application to be considered, please upload the following:

• A cover letter detailing how you meet the essential (and, if applicable, the desirable) selection criteria for this post
• A document containing your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and research publications list.

Informal enquiries about the role are welcomed and should be directed to Professor Clair Wills, Faculty of English, cew70@cam.ac.uk.

If you have any questions on the application process, please contact the School's HR Team on sahhr@admin.cam.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) Sunday 2 March 2025. Interviews are planned for the week commencing 24 March 2025, subject to change.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above.  

Please quote reference GG44729 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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