Research Fellow (CEDAR & WFD) in Democratic Resilience

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to March 2026

Background

The Centre for Elections, Democracy, Accountability and Representation (CEDAR) of the University of Birmingham is recruiting a Research Fellow in Democratic Resilience as part of its ongoing research and policy collaboration with the Westminster Foundation of Democracy (WFD). The Research Fellow will play a leading role in conducting research on resilience and drafting policy papers and publications in collaboration with CEDAR faculty and WFD colleagues, as well as supporting CEDAR and WFD communication and events. The successful candidate will have the potential to develop a world class publication record, and to engage with a wide range of policy makers.

Main Duties

The responsibilities of the role may include the following:

• Conducting policy-relevant research on democratic resilience, including the role of international community in supporting resilience around the world.
• Drafting policy reports and research papers under the guidance of a mentor.
• Establishing and maintaining a database of relevant academic and policy contacts.
• Keeping up to date with emerging research and policy in relevant subject areas.
• Assisting in the organisation of project workshops and seminars.
• Preparing blog posts and website news stories.
• Making presentations at events organised by WFD, CEDAR and others.
• Maintaining consistent communications with key stakeholders.
• Assisting in the drafting of research proposals.
• Assisting in the recording of podcasts on suitable topics.
• Promoting equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.
• Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods.

Person Specification

• A PhD (or close to completion) in political science, international development, international relations or a related area.
• The potential to develop a world class publication record and excellent analytical skills.
• An understanding of the role of civil society, institutions and international donors in democratic resilience.
• Ability to work as part of a team and communicated complex ideas clearly.
• Understanding of research communication and impact in an international development context.

Informal enquiries can be made to Nic Cheeseman, Professor of Democracy, Director of CEDAR, email: n.cheeseman@bham.ac.uk 

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working

Closes: 28/04/2025

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