The Faculty of Engineering & Physical Sciences at the University of Leeds calls applications for Research Fellowship in Critical Urban Studies.  The fellowship will be nine-month-long where the candidate will conduct research on a British Academy funded project entitled “NOVel Approach for Vital Infrastructure post DisAster (NOVA VIDA)”. Dr. Ornella Iuorio and Dr. Michael Janoschka, along with Dr. Gustavo Duran at the Department of Public Affairs in FLACSO, Ecuador will supervise the project.

The fellow will assist in developing Critical Policy Analysis (CPA) of post-disaster reconstruction strategies in Ecuador, and investigate technologies and materials employed, as well as social dynamics occurring in post-disaster development of housing and community centers.

Key duties

In particular, the research fellow will perform the following tasks

• Carrying out data collection, including desk-based tasks such as analysis of grey literature and official documents regarding adopted policies;
• Conducting semi-structured interviews with Ecuadorian national and local government representatives, local NGO’s, urban planners, think tanks and professionals involved in the post-earthquake reconstruction;
• Carrying out qualitative research including focus groups, participatory mapping and other participatory approaches involving neighbors and inhabitants of affected areas in the three case studies;
• Developing an in-depth analysis of the recollected empirical material through the use of adequate text-processing software such as NVivo, and the application of GIS tools;
• Similarly, developing visual maps and critical schemes, to capture pre and post-disaster; (i) urban development of the areas under scrutiny, (ii) housing and community centers typologies and distribution, (iii) organizations and bottom-up initiatives involved in the post-disaster reconstruction;
• Collaborating with internal and external investigators, and participate in the research group meetings;
  Generating and pursuing independent and original research ideas in the appropriate subject area;
• Developing research objectives and proposals and contributing to setting the direction of the research project and team including preparing future funding proposals in close collaboration with colleagues;
• Preparing papers for publication in leading international journals and to disseminate research results through other recognized forms of output;
• Working both independently and also as part of a larger team of researchers, engaging in knowledge-transfer activities where appropriate and feasible;
• Maintaining your own continuing professional development and acting as a mentor to less experienced colleagues as appropriate;
• Furthermore, contributing to the training of both undergraduate and postgraduate students; including assisting with the supervision of projects in areas relevant to the project.

Requirements 

Candidates must have the following qualifications in order to participate in this Critical Urban Studies Research Fellowship at the University of Leeds

• A Ph.D. (or have submitted your thesis before taking up the role) or equivalent either in Architectural Engineering, Architectural Technology, Urban Planning, Geography, Anthropology, or Public Policies, as well as an excellent honors degree in related subjects.
• Very strong understanding and previous expertise in applying qualitative and participatory empirical research methods.
• Evidence of the ability to develop critical mapping exercises and implement practical knowledge of GIS applications. Similarly, evidence of the ability to co-design and contribute to the elaboration of policy-relevant documents.
• Proficiency in Spanish and also the ability to spend up to 6 months in Ecuador for this research.
• Good time management, self-organization and planning skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines and work effectively under pressure.
• Also, evidence of track record of peer-reviewed publications in high impact factor journals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills including presentation skills.
• A proven ability to manage competing demands effectively, responsibly and without close support. Similarly, a proven ability to work well both individually and in a team.
• Furthermore, a strong commitment to your own continuous professional development.

Benefits/Compensation

The University of Leeds awards £33,797 to £40,322 per annum to their research fellows.

A criminal record check is not required for this research fellowship position at the University of Leeds. However, all applicants will have to confirm and state if they have any criminal history including if pending in court.

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