Applications are sought for a committed Post-doctoral Research Fellow to work with Dr Patrick O’ Hare, conducting research for a UKRI funded project entitled ‘the role of bioplastics, social plastics, and just plastics in a circular economy’ (Grant Ref: MR/Y003853/1). The primary duties will be to carry out research on best practices for Just Transition of waste pickers, including a period of ethnographic fieldwork (country TBC).  

The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in Social Anthropology or a cognate discipline with expertise in one or more of the following: Informal Recycling Sector (IRS) in the Global South, the (Political) Economy of Plastics, Just Transition Initiatives, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Schemes.

Due to the international nature of the work, this post will come with research expenses up to £10,000.

The post is available for 24 months starting 1 July 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

Employees of the University have access to a wide range of staff benefits including:

• Annual leave of 34 days, plus 5 public holidays
• Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions
• A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies
• Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services
• Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel
• Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff/children of staff, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme and a range of wellbeing initiatives

Further details of the project can be found by contacting Dr Patrick O’Hare at po35@st-andrews.ac.uk 

Applications are particularly welcome from researchers from the Global South, people from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in research posts at the University.

Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience.  We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter and Race Charters). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network.  Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/

Closing date: 15 March 2024 Interview Date: 15 April 2024

Please quote ref: AR2941DM

Further particulars: AR2941DM FPs.doc

School of Philosophy, Social Anthropology and Film Studies

Salary: £37,099 - £40,521 per annum

Start date: 1 July 2024

Fixed term: 24 months