About the Position
University of York invites applications for a funded Postdoctoral Research Associate position in Cultural Understandings of Biodiversity at the Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity, based in York, UK. This academic opportunity focuses on biodiversity as cultural heritage, socio-environmental feedback loops, and public engagement, contributing to research in environmental humanities and social sciences.
Within this role, interdisciplinary research will be undertaken using qualitative methods such as policy analysis, semi-structured interviews, and participatory workshops. Access to academic mentorship and research networks will be provided to support high-quality publications and professional development.
The project will examine whether framing biodiversity as ‘heritage’ shapes public understanding and responses to biodiversity change in Yorkshire. It will also explore the ecological futures envisioned by communities and identify socio-environmental feedback mechanisms that enable more equitable environmental action.
An enthusiastic Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in qualitative data collection and analysis is sought. Engagement with non-academic stakeholders and contribution to knowledge dissemination will be expected. Interdisciplinary research experience and an interest in community-centred and creative methodologies will be advantageous.
Applicants must hold a PhD in environmental social sciences or environmental humanities, with strong competence in qualitative data analysis.
This is a full-time, fixed-term Postdoctoral position commencing by September 2026, offering a salary of £37,694 per year, alongside opportunities for collaborative research and career advancement.
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Position/ Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate
- Institution: University of York, UK
- Department: Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity, Department of Environment and Geography
- Research Field: Environmental Humanities / Environmental Social Sciences
- Supervisor: Felicia Liu (with mentorship from Kathryn Arnold, Judith Krauss, Catherine Love-Smith)
- Location: York
- Country: United Kingdom
- Job Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: By September 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary / Funding: £37,694 per year (funded)
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in relevant field
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Research Area
- Cultural Understandings of Biodiversity
- Environmental Humanities
- Environmental Social Sciences
- Biodiversity Heritage and Perception
- Socio-environmental Feedback Systems
- Participatory and Community Research
- Interdisciplinary Environmental Studies
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- PhD (awarded or submitted) in environmental social sciences or humanities
- Strong knowledge of biodiversity change and public perception
- Expertise in qualitative data collection and analysis
- Ability to conduct independent and collaborative research
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in participatory or community-centred research
- Interest in creative research methodologies
- Strong academic writing and publication record
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct interdisciplinary research on biodiversity as cultural heritage
- Analyse qualitative data, including policy, media, and interviews
- Publish research findings and present at conferences
- Engage with stakeholders and support knowledge dissemination
- Contribute to new research proposals and funding opportunities
Application Process
Submit your application through the official portal with all required documents.
Required Documents:
- CV / Academic Resume
- Cover Letter
- 1-page Research Proposal
- Academic Certificates
- References
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 01 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 28 April 2026 (UK Time)
- Interview Period: June 2026
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of York
- Department Information: Leverhulme Centre for Anthropocene Biodiversity
- Official Job Announcement: Postdoctoral Research Associate – Cultural Understandings of Biodiversity
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
Email: felicia.liu@york.ac.uk
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking funded research positions, international academic collaboration, and advanced research opportunities at the University of York, UK.
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