About Position/Job
Durham University invites applications for a prestigious Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Catholic Social Thought and Practice (CSTP), housed within its globally top-ranked Department of Theology and Religion. In partnership with the Society of the Sacred Heart, this 3-year post is aimed at scholars undertaking impactful interdisciplinary work, contributing to both academic excellence and societal engagement. The post aligns with Durham’s strategic mission of integrating research with community-centred practice through the Centre for Catholic Studies and the Centre for Catholic Social Thought and Practice.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate
- Institution: Durham University
- Department: Theology and Religion
- Research field: Catholic Social Thought and Practice
- Location: Durham, United Kingdom
- Number of post: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (36 months)
- Start Date (Anticipated): October 2025
- Working Hours: 35 hours per week
- Salary Range: £38,249 to £45,413 per annum (Grade 7)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research area
- Catholic Theology
- Catholic Social Thought and Practice
- Social Ethics
- Political Theology
- Religion and Society
- Theological Anthropology
- Migration and Social Justice
- Integral Ecology
- Peace and Conflict Studies
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- A PhD (or near completion) in theology, religious studies, or a related field
- Proven experience conducting high-quality academic research
- Ability to write for peer-reviewed journals and deliver conference presentations
- Experience working with grassroots or community-based organisations
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Publications in high-impact journals
- Experience in interdisciplinary collaboration
- Record of conference participation
- Experience in mentoring or supervising students
- Familiarity with Catholic social teaching in applied contexts
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement an original research project in CSTP
- Collaborate with Professor Anna Rowlands and contribute to the Centre for Catholic Studies
- Engage with practice-based organisations for theological accompaniment
- Publish research findings in academic journals and present at international forums
- Participate in departmental seminars, events, and collaborative initiatives
- Assist in organising research events and contribute to teaching if aligned with career development
- Actively contribute to Durham’s inclusive and collegial academic culture
Application Process
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via Durham University’s recruitment portal.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter
- 1000–1500 word research proposal in the field of Catholic Social Thought and Practice
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Open Now
- Deadline: 05 July 2025
- Interview Date: August 2025 (In-person or virtual)
Useful Links
- Institution Website: https://www.durham.ac.uk
- Job Posting: Job Description – Postdoctoral Research Associate
- Apply Now: https://durham.taleo.net/careersection/application.jss?l
