Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are sought for a Research Associate role on the 'Visual Interactions in Early Writing Systems' (VIEWS) project, directed by Dr Philippa Steele. The successful applicant will conduct research on a pre-determined aspect of the project, namely the relationships between the visibility and/or visual features of writing traditions and their vitality. The position is open to any specialisation in terms of place and period studied and disciplinary approach (e.g. linguistic, archaeological, anthropological). However, all other things being equal, there will be a preference for areas underrepresented in the project's current case studies. Further details can be found in the attached Further Particulars document.

The successful candidate will contribute to excellence in research as a member of the VIEWS team, carrying out research at a similar level to that undertaken by lecturing staff. They will undertake to publish their project research either in a monograph by or after the end of their term of employment, or in shorter form publications, as well as pursuing short-term dissemination goals.

The successful candidate will be expected to play a full role in regular VIEWS activities, meetings and events. They will also play a significant role in the project's flagship impact initiative, the Endangered Writing Network. This will involve planning and facilitating events, strategising for work with affected communities, social media activities, awareness raising and other tasks on an ad hoc basis.

The Research Associate will have demonstrable prior experience of studying writing traditions within their own area of expertise, as well as the willingness and ability to develop academic interests in other comparable approaches and writing traditions. Some scope will be given to the holder of this post to design their own research programme.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 18 months, starting 1st October 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter.

For your application to be considered, please upload the following documents:

 - Cover letter (In your cover letter, please include a section explaining what you would hope to work on and to achieve during the tenure of this post: 1,000 words maximum).

 - CV

 - List of publications

 - Sample of work

 - The names of two referees who will be contacted to submit their reference if you are invited to interview

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Philippa Steele, pms45@cam.ac.uk. If you have any queries regarding the application process please contact the School HR Team on sahhr@admin.cam.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is midnight BST on Friday 30th May 2025. Interviews will be held remotely and are planned to take place on Monday 7th July 2025, subject to confirmation and change.

Please quote reference GE45708 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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