Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Researcher

SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East.  SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.

About the Department:

The School of History, Religions and Philosophies is a vibrant, highly specialised community that covers the histories, systems of belief and thought in Africa, Asia and the Near and Middle East.  It is unique in the field for approaching teaching and research from the perspective of Asia and Africa, rather than through a western-centric framework, and for exploring in depth the dynamic histories of these regions, as well as their traditions, systems of belief and thought. The innovative and progressive teaching of the School has contributed to its recent ranking of 10th in the UK and 39th in the world (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2017) for history; and 17th in the UK for religions and philosophies.

About the Role

This role is an exciting opportunity to join project dldl/ድልድል, a research and innovation project funded initially for four years by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the Future Leaders Fellowship scheme. The project is hosted at the School of History, Religions and Philosophies at SOAS University of London and is led by Dr Romina Istratii. It involves numerous collaborators, partners and team members in the project countries, including the University of Bristol and the University of Sheffield in the UK.

dldl/ድልድል means 'bridge' in Tigrigna, a term that reflects the project's aim to bridge different disciplines, sectors and stakeholders to achieve a more reflexive, decolonial and integrated approach to addressing domestic violence in faith communities. The project comprises of a series of research, sensitisation, knowledge exchange and public engagement activities involving collaborators, stakeholders and communities in East Africa and the UK with the aims of a) improving preparedness among clergy and seminarians to respond to DV victims and perpetrators, b) increasing religio-cultural sensitivity in the NGO/state-led DV sectors, c) developing integrated DV systems and better served affected populations, and d) promoting reciprocal research partnerships and mutual professional development for all team members and personnel.

How to Apply:

Closing date: 21st January 2024          

Interviews to be held: TBC

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates from working class, first generation Higher Education, the Global South, Black, Asian or other minority ethnic and underrepresented groups. All appointment decisions will be made on merit, following a fair and competitive process.