Senior Research Associate/Research Associate â Environmental Social Science / Political Ecology (A3120)

An exciting opportunity exists for an environmental social scientist/ human geographer/ political ecologist to contribute to a collaborative project in east and west Africa:  Fair Fish: The power and politics of aquatic food systems in coastal Africa.

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic environmental social scientist to contribute to a project investigating the power and politics of food systems in Kenya and Ghana. Working closely with researchers from Lancaster University, World Fish, and John Hopkins, the project will develop a mixed methods approach to collect qualitative and quantitative data on food systems in Kenya and Ghana. These data will be explored alongside, and ultimately integrated with, data collected on the ecology, nutritional quality, and governance of these systems. Therefore a commitment and ability to work with researchers from diverse disciplines is essential.  

This project will take fishing as a starting point from which the policies, practices, structures, and power dynamic’s that shape systems of food production (e.g. fishing), distribution, and consumption will be analysed at local, national, and international scales in Kenya and Ghana.

Lancaster University is a research intensive university, ranked in the top 1% of universities globally, and in the top 10 for UK universities. The Lancaster Environment Centre (LEC) is a large and multidisciplinary department, tackling environmental challenges across the natural and social sciences. Within LEC, there is particular strength in high diversity tropical systems, particularly coral reefs and tropical rain forests, and in Political Ecology and food security research.

Preferred candidates will have a demonstrated interest in addressing environmental challenges and a background in environmental social science, human geography, anthropology, or related fields. A proactive and enthusiastic approach and excellent communication and interpersonal skills are essential for the collaborative nature of the research. Attention to detail, good English writing skills, and an interest and ability to work in culturally diverse contexts are essential to meet the exciting and challenging goals of the project within demanding deadlines.

You will join us on an indefinite contract however, the role remains contingent on external funding which, at this time is for 24 months, with a possible extension for 12 months.

For more information, see the Further Information link below.

Informal enquiries to Prof Christina Hicks, Lancaster Environment Centre, +44 (0)1524 595054, christina.hicks@lancaster.ac.uk. 

 We welcome applications from people in all diversity groups.

Closing Date: 14 Dec 2020
Category: Research