Lecturer in Computational Social Science (Criminology/Sociology/Politics) (E&R)

Education and Research

Faculty of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (HASS)

This full time post is available from 1 August 2024 on a permanent basis.

The role

You will join the Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy, and Anthropology as part of the Centre for Computation Social Science (formerly Q-Step) and will contribute to its vibrant teaching and research community. 

The successful candidate should have an interest in investigating social phenomena, behaviours, and interactions through the use of social data science/computational research methods. These methods include, but are not limited to, advanced quantitative analysis, Natural Language Processing (NLP), network analysis, and social simulation. You would need to have a strong understanding of the Python programming language and demonstrate the ability to successfully deliver training in using Python for data analysis in a clear and accessible manner. Knowledge and the ability to contribute to the teaching of a substantive discipline (Criminology, Sociology, or Politics) is essential.

About you

You will have:

• A PhD or equivalent in Criminology, Sociology, or Politics and have an independent, internationally recognised research programme in a relevant active field of research
• A strong record in attracting funding for research or demonstrate potential to attract such funding
• An active approach to inter-disciplinary and multi-disciplinary research
• Enthusiasm for delivering high quality undergraduate programmes
• Strong connections and funded projects with business and community partners
• Involvement in projects which develop impact

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

What we can offer you

• Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research
• Support teams that understand the University wide research and teaching goals and partner with our academics accordingly
• An Innovation, Impact and Business directorate that works closely with our academics providing specialist support for external engagement and development
• Our Exeter Academic initiative supporting high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career

• A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon

The University of Exeter

We are a member of the prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities and in the top 200 universities in the world (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024 and QS World University Ranking 2024).  We combine world-class teaching with world-class research, achieving a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework Award 2023, underpinned by Gold ratings for Student Experience and Student Outcomes.

Our world-leading research impact has grown more than any other Russell Group university in recent years, and we are home to some of the world’s most influential researchers, seeking to answer some of the most fundamental issues facing humankind today.  More than 99% of our research is of international quality and 47% is world-leading (2021 Research Excellence Framework).

We encourage proactive engagement with industry, business and community partners to enhance the impact of research and education and improve the employability of our students. Read about our world leading research – Green Futures and how we are transforming education for a changing world. We are located in a beautiful part of the country and Exeter (a fast growing tech hub) is one of only a few UK cities to have been designated as a UNESCO Creative City

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

We are committed to ensuring reasonable adjustments are available for interviews and workplaces.

Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented within our working community. 

With over 30,000 students and 7,000 staff from 150 different countries we offer a diverse and engaging environment where our diversity is celebrated and valued as a major strength. We are committed to creating an inclusive culture where all members of our community are supported to thrive; where diverse voices are heard through our engagement with evidence-based charter frameworks for gender (Athena SWAN and Project Juno for Physics), race equality (Race Equality Charter Mark), LGBTQ+ inclusion (Stonewall Diversity Champion) and as a Disability Confident employer.

Further information

For an informal and confidential discussion about the post, please contact the Head of the Department of Social and Political Sciences, Philosophy, and Anthropology, Professor Robert Lamb 01392-722054 or [email protected]

Interviews are expected to take place in February.