About the Position
The University of Leeds invites applications for a Research Fellow to join the AHRC-DFG-funded project “Transitions: Examining Changing Regimes of Sexuality in Post-Soviet Muslim Republics.” This full-time, 12-month post (1 February 2026 – 31 January 2027) will be based in the School of Languages, Cultures and Societies under the supervision of Professor Vlad Strukov.
The project explores evolving cultural and political discourses of sexuality in Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan, where Islam is a dominant religion. Working alongside an international team from the Universities of Leeds and Regensburg, the Research Fellow will contribute to an interdisciplinary exploration of Cultural Studies, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Art History, Literary Studies, Media Studies, History, and International Relations. This post offers an exciting opportunity for collaborative fieldwork, conference organisation, and developing original research leading to publication.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Research Fellow
- Institution: University of Leeds
- Department: School of Languages, Cultures and Societies
- Research Field: Cultural and Gender Studies
- Location: Leeds, United Kingdom
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (12 months)
- Start Date (Anticipated): February 2026
- Working Hours: 100% (Full-time)
- Salary Range: £41,064 – £48,822 per annum (Grade 7)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Cultural Studies
- Gender and Sexuality Studies
- Art History
- Literary Studies
- Media Studies
- History
- International Relations
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Cultural Studies, Gender Studies, or a closely related discipline
- Demonstrated experience in independent and collaborative research
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working on interdisciplinary or international research projects
- Knowledge of post-Soviet or Central Asian contexts
- Proven record of academic publications or conference participation
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent and team-based research aligned with project goals
- Support the organisation of conferences, workshops, and fieldwork
- Produce high-quality research outputs, including journal articles and reports
- Contribute to the project’s public engagement and dissemination activities
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applicants should submit their materials through the University of Leeds online application portal.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter outlining research interests and relevant experience
- List of Publications
- Names and contact details of two referees
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 13 October 2025
- Deadline: 5 November 2025
- Interview Date: To be announced
Useful Links
- Institution Website: University of Leeds
- Official Notification Link: Click here
- Apply Now: University of Leeds Careers Portal
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