Darwin-Hamied Senior Research Fellowship

Christ’s College invites applications for a stipendiary Senior Research Fellowship in the Social Science of Biodiversity, tenable for 5 years (potentially renewable) commencing between January 1 and October 1, 2026, upon mutual agreement.

The newly established Darwin-Hamied Centre will comprise Fellows and PhD students pursuing research on biodiversity from a range of perspectives, and the potential for the Fellow to actively collaborate and explore common ground with others in the Centre will be prioritised. Having made an appointment in the field of conservation biology, the Centre is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates who can complement this agenda with a focus on the social sciences, especially nature-based economics and demography, and their interface with biodiversity conservation.

The successful applicant will have a PhD in a cognate subject (e.g., Economics, Conservation Science, Demography, Sociology, Geography, Statistics) by the time of taking up the post. Previous postdoctoral experience is desirable, though we also welcome applications from non-traditional academic backgrounds, including those working on policy at NGOs, multinational organisations, or in government. They will have a proven record of internationally recognised research addressing the social science of biodiversity conservation, evidenced by a strong publication record, participation in international conferences and seminars, and work on innovative research projects.

Applications must include a three-page research proposal including references, and full CV. Applicants must also arrange for two academic referees to submit references by the closing date. Proposals addressing the interface between population, economics, and biodiversity conservation are particularly encouraged.

The successful applicant will be an independent investigator. Affiliation to an established research group at Cambridge that fits best with their area of interest will be encouraged, as will collaboration with Cambridge-based institutions such as the Cambridge Conservation Initiative, the University Museum of Zoology, and/or the Cambridge University Botanic Garden. Research-active Fellows are also eligible for an annual allowance of up to £2,750 for research expenses, such as travel to conferences, and includes equipment and book allowances. The Fellow will be encouraged to apply for independent research funding from appropriate bodies.

In addition to pursuing research, it is expected that the Fellow will take a full part in College life and activities. If desired, the Fellow will be welcome to undertake some undergraduate teaching during Term, for which payment will be made at normal supervision rates. The Fellow will be a member of the College Governing Body, eligible to sit on College committees and with the full privileges of a Fellow. Privileges include seven free meals per week and an office in the College. The stipend will be on the University single spine within the range Grades 7-9, depending on experience. College Research Fellows tend to be appointed at the lower grade, except in exceptional circumstances.

It should be noted that a successful candidate for a Fellowship who does not have an automatic right to work in the United Kingdom will be subject to the visa requirements of the United Kingdom. The College will give informal advice and assistance but ultimately it will be the responsibility of the candidate to obtain the necessary visa.

Applications and reference letters should be sent to jobs@christs.cam.ac.uk to arrive no later than 24:59 on Friday 7 November, 2025.

It is anticipated that shortlisted applicants will be invited for interview at the College in December 2025.

Informal enquiries may be directed to Professor Bhaskar Vira, bv101@cam.ac.uk

Conditions of Employment

The successful candidate will be employed by the College for a fixed-term of five years with dates to be agreed, as a Senior Research Fellow subject to the College/'s Statutes and Ordinances. They will be elected to a Fellowship of the College and will be expected to reside in Cambridge. The stipend will be determined on appointment and will be on the University single spine within the range Grades 7-9, depending on experience. The Fellow will be eligible for participation in the University Superannuation Scheme. There is a small annual entertainment allowance. The successful candidate will be expected to conduct research for 40 hours per week.

Christ College is an equal opportunities employer.

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