Research Associate

The University of Portsmouth is a global employer of choice where exceptional people create, share and apply knowledge that makes a difference.Experience the pride of being part of a select group – one of only four universities in the south-east of England to achieve a prestigious Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework. Additionally, we proudly rank among the top 140 universities globally in the Times Higher Young University World Rankings.Ambition, Responsibility and Openness drive our every endeavour. Join our esteemed institution with a proven track record of success, and where dedication to excellence is key. We want people to make their mark in a professional community that truly values people, innovation, and achievement.
‍

The Role:
‍
We are seeking a motivated Research Associate to support an interdisciplinary project examining contemporary online environments and digital ecosystems. The role involves desk-based research using open-source intelligence (OSINT) methods, online data collection, and qualitative and quantitative analysis of publicly available information across multiple digital platforms.

The successful candidate will assist with identifying case studies, gathering and analysing data using digital research tools, reviewing academic and industry literature, and contributing to written reports and briefing materials for academic and non-academic audiences.

This role would suit a candidate with strong analytical and research skills, experience working with online data, and an interest in digital platforms, technology and society. Experience with OSINT techniques or digital research tools is desirable but not essential.

This is a fixed-term position offering an opportunity to gain experience in interdisciplinary digital research and contribute to research outputs.Whilst there is a need to be in Portsmouth a few days a week, hybrid working is available for this role.

This appointment is a fixed-term contract for 12 weeks, starting as soon as possible

For internal candidates it may be possible to apply for this role under the Secondment Policy . If you wish to apply as a secondee, you must have approval of your line manager in advance of submitting your application form. Please confirm in your application that your line manager has approved this.If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact Karen Middleton at Karen.middleton@port.ac.uk
‍

Discover the advantages of joining our university. We offer a range of attractive benefits and opportunities to enhance your work experience:

• Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Generous leave entitlement of 32–35 days a year, plus bank holidays, and an additional Christmas closure.
• Family-friendly policies supporting flexible working.
• Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
• Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• Staff wellbeing programmes.
• Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.
• Discounted learning.
• Start-up business mentoring from expert entrepreneurs via our Entrepreneurs in Residence programme.
• The perks don’t stop there - click ‘apply’ for further information on My Reward and Benefits

UKVI Statement
‍
Prior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please be aware that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.

ED&I Statement:
‍
We are committed to upholding the University’s values of being ambitious, open and responsible, in an inclusive working environment that promotes dignity and respect.Please note that this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised, so early applications are advised.

‍