Medicalising Immigration Detention Researcher

Reporting to Dr Andriani Fili the postholder will support the project ‘Medicalising Immigration Detention,’ which investigates the intersection of immigration control and public health within detention centres in Greece. This research aims to explore how medical practices, health service provision, and legal frameworks contribute to the legitimisation and operation of immigration detention. By drawing on historical records, ethnographic fieldwork, and policy analysis, the project seeks to uncover how health concerns have historically been used to justify the confinement of migrants and other marginalized groups.

The project is already underway, and the Research Assistant will play a vital role in both data collection and analysis, assisting in the gathering of qualitative and quantitative data from multiple sources. This will involve conducting systematic literature reviews, analysing policy documents, and working with statistical data using SPSS and qualitative data using NVivo. The role will also support fieldwork activities, including interviews with key stakeholders such as migrants, former detainees, health professionals, NGOs, and policymakers. Additionally, the post holder will contribute to the preparation of research outputs, including journal articles, reports, and public engagement materials such as policy briefs.

Candidates should hold a first degree in criminology, sociology, socio-legal studies, public health, migration studies, or human rights, together with some relevant experience; working toward a doctorate in criminology, sociology, socio-legal studies, public health, migration studies, or human rights; experience in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods (using SPSS and/or NVivo), including conducting literature reviews, focus groups, or interviews; ability to manage own research and administrative activities and familiarity with issues related to immigration detention, human rights, public health, or state violence. Experience in conducting fieldwork, especially in sensitive research areas such as migration or detention and contributing to research publications is desirable.

This post is part-time, 0.5 FTE and fixed term for 18 months. The postholder will be based at the Centre for Criminology, Faculty of Law, St Cross Building, St Cross Road, Oxford, OX1 3UL.

Applications for this vacancy are to be made online via the recruitment portal. You will be required to submit a supporting statement and CV as part of your application.

Closing date for applications is midday on Monday 14 April 2025. Interviews will take place on Monday 28 April 2025

Shortlisted applicants will be asked to arrange for two references to be submitted before the interviews take place. 

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