Research Fellow at University of Southampton

Introduction section:

 The overarching aim of the project is to develop an innovative model which removes physical and societal barriers in enjoying green and blue spaces to ensure that all people are independent and equal in society. To achieve this aim, are two work packages one is qualitative (Synergy), which this post is for, another researcher is currently being hired for the other quantitative work package (Infrastructure Connections) which will run concurrently. 

About you

You will be a member of an interdisciplinary team with members from Swansea University as well as Southampton. 

We will work with community organisations to ensure that the voices of our marginalised residents are heard. This work package will consist of two consecutive steps:

• Discussion group with community organisations (e.g., charities, religious establishments) to gather perspectives of the project, and to co-produce a recruitment strategy. 
• Interviews with community residents focussing on the barriers, facilitators, and perspectives of living in a coastal community and utilising the green grid, and green and blue spaces. 

The role will include organising and supporting the discussion groups, conducting the interviews, and analyses with the support and guidance of the co-applicant team of experienced researchers.  This would suit an early career researcher or a 2^nd/3^rd year doctoral student with qualitative data collection experience. 

Skills required 

We are looking for someone with the following skills:

• Qualitative research skills – particularly, focus group and interview methods, data collection and analysis (essential)
• Experience of co-creation approaches with communities (desirable)
• Experience of working with marginalised communities (desirable)

The role will involve some local travel within Southampton and expenses will be paid. 

This role would suit someone from a broad range of disciplines, e.g. geography, health and social sciences, public health, psychology, sociology or social policy. We encourage applications from people from diverse communities. 

Time commitment 

0.6% FTE, ERE level 4, for 8 months October 2023 to May 2024. This work can be flexible in terms of days worked to fit around other work or family commitments.

What we can offer you

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work.

With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.                                                                                                      

Further details:

We believe equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to making the University of Southampton a welcoming, vibrant and successful organisation. Having a diverse workforce, inclusive of people of all ages and beliefs, from different racial backgrounds, educational and social backgrounds opens up a wealth of possibilities, makes us more creative and accelerates our impact on society. We welcome applicants that value diversity of our community and are willing to play their part in supporting the mission of inclusivity. 

Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated on the job.