Researcher in the project “Famines as mass-atrocities: Reconsidering violence, memory and justice in relation to

The University of Gothenburg tackles society’s challenges with diverse knowledge. 56 000 students and 6 600 employees make the university a large and inspiring place to work and study. Strong research and attractive study programmes attract scientists and students from around the world. With new knowledge and new perspectives, the University contributes to a better future.

The School of Global Studies at the University of Gothenburg produces top-quality research, teaching, and public engagement on today’s key global challenges. The staff of over 100 faculty and PhD researchers examines global questions and their governance in disciplines and areas such as environmental studies, human ecology, sustainability, international relations, peace and security, and development studies as well as in anthropology, regional studies, cultural heritage, gender, human rights, and migration. The School’s work is highly international, cross-disciplinary, and policy-relevant.

The School of Global Studies (SGS) at the University of Gothenburg invites applications for a 6-month 50% researcher position. The position forms part of a research project led by Camilla Orjuela entitled “Famines as mass-atrocities: Reconsidering violence, memory and justice in relation to hunger”, https://www.gu.se/en/research/famines-as-mass-atrocities-reconsidering-violence-memory-and-justice-in-relation-to-hunger  

Job assignments

The project is a 4-year research project funded by the Swedish Research Council, and investigates how famines are handled in their aftermath. Although famines have killed staggering numbers of people, they are usually not conceptualized as mass-violence. Victims are rarely commemorated and actors responsible are not held accountable – despite the fact that famines are largely human-made. The project analyses the attempts and possibilities to pursue remembrance and justice after mass-starvation. By looking at historical famines in Africa, Asia and Europe, we ask under what conditions, how and by whom famines are understood, remembered and dealt with as mass-atrocities. We also look at contemporary initiatives to push for remembrance and justice for hunger deaths, for instance by intergovernmental organizations, civil society groups, legal professionals, victim groups and states.

We are looking for a researcher who will work independently on a case study of relevance for the project. The work should result in an article for publication in an international refereed journal. Other tasks within the project may also be included.

Qualifications

We are looking for a candidate with:

• a PhD in a relevant topic within the social sciences
• earlier research experience and knowledge of a case of relevance for the project (for more information on this, please contact Camilla Orjuela).
• Good language ability in English.

In addition to the basic qualifications, suitability for the project will be assessed. Given the limited time frame, it is crucial that the candidate can quickly get started with the work. Familiarity with research on mass-violence, memory and transitional justice is therefore particularly meritorious. Special consideration is given to how well the candidate's knowledge and research experience complement previously completed work in the project.

Employment

The employment is a fix-term position for six months, 50% of full-time placed at the School of Global Studies, Gothenburg, starting as soon as possible.

For further information regarding the position

Please contact Camilla Orjuela, professor of peace and development research and project leader, [email protected] +46 768 242626

Unions

Union representatives at the University of Gothenburg:

https://www.gu.se/en/about-the-university/work-at-the-university-of-gothenburg/how-to-apply

Application

In order to apply for a position at the University of Gothenburg, you have to register an account in our online recruitment system. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline of 3 February 2023. Applications should be written in English.

Please include the following mandatory information with your application:

• Your contact details and personal data
• A brief introductory letter describing your interest in and suitability for the position
• CV, including degrees and other completed courses, work experience, a list of publications, language skills
• The names and contact details of two referees

Closing date: 3 February 2023

The University works actively to achieve a working environment with equal conditions, and values the qualities that diversity brings to its operations.

Salaries are set individually at the University.

In accordance with the National Archives of Sweden’s regulations, the University must archive application documents for two years after the appointment is filled. If you request that your documents are returned, they will be returned to you once the two years have passed. Otherwise, they will be destroyed.

In connection to this recruitment, we have already decided which recruitment channels we should use. We therefore decline further contact with vendors, recruitment and staffing companies.