Research Associate - Historical Geography - Nottingham

About the Position

The School of Geography at the University of Nottingham is inviting applications for a Research Associate/Fellow (fixed-term) to work on the prestigious UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship project, “Constructing Climate Coloniality: Histories, Knowledges and Materialities of Climate Adaptation in Southern Africa.” Led by Dr Matthew Hannaford, this ambitious interdisciplinary project explores how climate knowledge and practices evolved during colonial times, focusing on Mozambique in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The position involves extensive archival research, co-production workshops with local stakeholders, and developing impactful publications. This role is ideal for motivated researchers passionate about African history, climate adaptation, and historical geography, who wish to engage in cutting-edge collaborative work that addresses pressing global challenges. The University of Nottingham offers an inclusive, supportive environment committed to diversity and flexible working.

Position/Job Details

Position: Research Associate/Fellow (fixed term)
Institution: University of Nottingham
Department: School of Geography
Research field: Historical Geography, African History, Climate Coloniality
Location: University Park, Nottingham, United Kingdom
Number of post: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed term until 30 April 2028
Start Date (Anticipated): September 2025
Working Hours: 36.25 hours per week
Salary Range: £31,637 to £46,735 per annum (minimum £35,116 with PhD), progression based on performance
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research area

Climate coloniality
African environmental and climate history
Historical geography
Archival and oral history research
Climate adaptation policy and foresight

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD (or near completion) in History, Geography, or a related field
Proven experience in archival and/or oral history research
Research background in African history, environmental/climate history, or historical geography
Strong publication record

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of relevant local languages
Experience working collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
Excellent written and oral communication skills

Key Responsibilities

Conduct archival research on climate knowledges and practices in Mozambique (19th–early 20th century)
Contribute to co-production workshops with local partners and stakeholders in southern Africa
Develop and publish high-quality research outputs
Collaborate actively with the project team and participate in regular meetings
Travel within the UK and internationally for fieldwork and dissemination