University of Birmingham 2024 Cadbury Research Fellowship in African Studies: Enhancing Academic Opportunities

We are seeking a research fellow in African Studies to enhance our research environment and teaching for an 18-month period. The Fellow will engage in a research program agreed upon with their mentor. This position is funded by an endowment, allowing staff members from sub-Saharan African universities to spend time at the University of Birmingham. Therefore, applicants must be currently based in Africa and affiliated with an African Higher Education Institution.

Benefits

• Full-time starting salary typically ranges from £34,980 to £44,263.

Requirements

Essential

• Currently living in Africa and working for or linked with an African higher education institution.
• Candidates must EITHER not hold a permanent academic position OR submit a statement with their application confirming that their home institution will release them for the duration of the appointment at the University of Birmingham.
• A PhD completed and passed between September 1, 2018 and April 1, 2024. (Candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting examination are not eligible to apply.)
• A record of research and publications appropriate for the level of post-doctoral experience.
• Ability to create a convincing and achievable research and publication proposal in African Studies.
• Ability to contribute to undergraduate and Master’s level teaching in African Studies.
• Understanding of the Equality Act 2010’s protected characteristics and the ability to ensure equal and fair treatment of those with protected characteristics in daily activities.

Desirable

• Experience in collaborative research activities, including participation in large research projects and meeting deadlines.
• Awareness of current policy issues and connections with civil society organizations.

Selection Process

Role Summary

• Emphasis on producing high-quality research and publications in African Studies within the arts, humanities, or social sciences.
• Expertise in any area of Sub-Saharan Africa or its diaspora is required. Candidates with knowledge of Ghana are especially encouraged to apply. Applications from scholars focused on both contemporary and historical periods are welcome.
• Contribute to the research environment of the Department, as well as the wider School and University.
• Analyze and interpret the research findings and conclusions.
  – Participate in undergraduate and graduate teaching as appropriate.
• Analyze and interpret the research findings and conclusions.
• Participate in undergraduate and graduate teaching as appropriate.

Main Duties

Responsibilities may encompass, though are not confined to, the following:

• Develop research objectives and proposals for individual or joint research, with mentor assistance if needed.
• Contribute to writing bids for research funding.
• Analyze and interpret data.
• Utilize knowledge to generate fresh intellectual insights.
• Disseminate research findings through publications, research seminars, etc.
• Supervise students on research-related tasks and provide guidance to PhD students as appropriate to the discipline.
• Contribute to departmental/school research activities and administration.
• Engage in enterprise, business development, and/or public engagement activities beneficial to the College and the University, often under the supervision of a project leader.
• Collect research data through various methods such as field research, literature reviews, and interviews.
• Share research findings through academic publications or presentations, such as seminars.
• Offer guidance and support to both staff and students as needed.
• Address any challenges that may arise and hinder the progress of research objectives and deadlines.
• Engage in teaching and/or assessment-related activities for up to six hours per week, which may involve creating and delivering instructional modules.
• Advocate for equality and diversity, setting an example as a role model and fostering an inclusive work environment.
• Contribute to the development of innovative models, techniques, and methodologies.

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Application Documents

Applicants should include:

• A full CV.
• A cover letter detailing skills and experience.
• A research proposal covering the fellowship period.
• A 10,000-word writing sample (a chapter from an unpublished PhD dissertation, a published article, or a book chapter).
• Details of two referees.

Method of Application

Click Here to Apply                                                                                                                     

For More Information,

Application Deadline: May 27, 2024.