Research Associate

Contract Type: Fixed Term - 36 Months

Do you want to be part of a growing community focused on the national and global governance of engineering biology? Are you passionate about responsibly translating cutting-edge science into societal and ecological benefits? If so, this exciting Research Associate opportunity may be ideal for you

In this role, you will contribute to the Advanced Research-Invention Agency funded project, Futuring Biological Commons. This project aims to advance the UK’s governing approach on synthetic plants, to foster a sustainable research and industrial ecosystem, and promote meaningful public deliberation.  

You will work closely with Professor Joy Y. Zhang and a transdisciplinary research team, comprising experts from the social sciences, synthetic biology, industrial biotechnology, and civil society. Their role will be to advance an empirically grounded, forward-looking approach to relational plant ethics, incorporating care for technolifeforms and ‘symbiodiversity’ while identifying actionable strategies to overcome structural and cultural barriers in the responsible development and adoption of synthetic plant technologies.

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

• Ensuring the successful and timely delivery of the Futuring Biological Commons project, fostering a collaborative, collegial, and interdisciplinary research environment.   
• Actively contributing to the research culture and intellectual community of the Centre for Global Science and Epistemic Justice and the School of Social Sciences, engaging in knowledge exchange and academic development initiatives.  

What will you bring to the role?

• PhD or equivalent in a relevant field within the social studies of science, such as sociology, anthropology, environmental politics, environmental or plant ethics, science communication, or a related discipline 
• Proven ability to independently design and conduct rigorous empirical social research, demonstrating methodological excellence 
• Strong research track record, evidenced by publications in internationally recognised peer-reviewed journals and presentations at academic conferences   
• Comprehensive knowledge of emerging applications in engineering biology and their socio-environmental implications, particularly in areas such as agriculture, food systems, and ecological sustainability

Further details:

*Occasionally we may need to close a vacancy before the published deadline due to a high number of applications being received, therefore we strongly advise you to submit your application as soon as possible. (All vacancies will be open for at least one week.)

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.

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