Research Associate in Parliamentary Studies
Join the School of Sociological Studies, Politics and International Relations to work as a Research Associate examining the capacity and legitimacy of the UK’s national parliament under the supervision of Professor Felicity Matthews.
Responsibilities
* Under the supervision of Professor Matthews, conduct research of international standing in relation to the contemporary UK Parliament, public engagement with politics, and other aligned research agenda.
* Identify relevant literature, update own knowledge as required; and assess the validity of the relevant literature and its contribution to the development of the field.
* Identify, organise and review appropriate sources of secondary data.
* Contribute to the preparation of publications and outputs, including peer‑reviewed journal articles, research monographs and policy reports.
* Self‑manage time and adhere to agreed timetables.
* Carry out project management and administrative duties as required; for example, routine project management, collate information, and record‑keeping.
* Involvement in professional activities such as refereeing papers, editing journals, refereeing research grants, external examining, organising conferences, committee membership and involvement with professional bodies on accreditation.
* Contribute to, and play an active part in, the wider research environment of the School.
* Make a full and active contribution to the principles of the ‘Sheffield Academic’.
* As a member of staff you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
* Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply.
Essential Criteria
* Hold or be close to completing a PhD in Politics, in a relevant sub‑field (e.g., British Politics, parliamentary studies, political participation) or have equivalent experience.
* Strong background in parliamentary studies; and excellent understanding of the history and development of the UK Parliament.
* Experience of publishing in high‑quality peer‑reviewed journals.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations.
* Experience of and skills in managing projects, and working to agreed deadlines.
* Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving.
* Ability to work effectively in a team and to work independently, seeking guidance where appropriate.
* Experience of undertaking research with political elites.
* Ability to initiate and build relationships and communicate impactfully with non‑academic stakeholders.
* Experience of drafting policy briefs and writing proposals with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Salary and Contract Details
* Grade: 7
* Salary: £38,784 - £47,389 per annum. Potential to progress to £51,753 per annum through sustained exceptional contribution.
* Work arrangement: Full‑time
* Duration: 5 January 2026 to 5 July 2029
* Line manager: Professor Felicity Matthews
* Website: https://sheffield.ac.uk/spir
Benefits
* A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* Generous pension scheme.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* Opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development networks (Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
* Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A commitment to your development with access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Academic Career Pathways.
* A range of generous family‑friendly policies including paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies, support for those going through menopause, paid time off and support for fertility treatment, and more.
Equal Opportunity
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Application
Closing Date: 19/11/2025.
Next steps in the recruitment process will take place on 3 December 2025, consisting of a presentation and interview. Candidates will be notified of progression to the selection stage on the week commencing 17 November. For support, equipment or adjustments to enable participation in any element of the recruitment process, contact spr-operations@sheffield.ac.uk.
For informal enquiries about this job contact Felicity Matthews, Head of School: on f.m.matthews@sheffield.ac.uk.
#J-18808-Ljbffr