Job title: Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Researcher in Political Economy of Structural Transformation (x 5 positions)
Department: Economics
Contract Type: Fixed term contract until 31st August 2028
Grade: 7
Salary: £43,297.57 to £50,562.57 per annum inclusive of London Allowance
Location: Bloomsbury, Camden, Greater London, United Kingdom
Hours: 35
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 Role
The CSST invites applications for the post of Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Researcher in Political Economy of Structural Transformation with research expertise and interest in one or more of the following areas:
- Agriculture and food systems
- Livelihoods, work and skills
- Global value chains and international trade
- Domestic resource mobilisation
Under the leadership of the Centre co-directors, the candidate is expected to co-develop research projects in one or more of the research streams of the Centre and contribute to collaborative research projects within a multi-disciplinary research team, involving other research fellows and the Policy Fellow hosted by the Centre, as well as a global network of researchers, especially those based in the Global South. The candidate is expected to contribute to all stages of research, including publication of high-quality and high-impact academic papers, dissemination activities and policy engagement.
About the Department
The Centre for Sustainable Structural Transformation (CSST) is a research centre hosted by the SOAS Economics Department. CSST will conduct path-breaking research in developing countries, especially those in Africa and Southeast Asia, to inform strategies for structural transformation and economic diversification that are environmentally and socially sustainable. CSST will also advance concrete proposals on how private sector firms and governments can coordinate their efforts towards new industrial pathways for sustainable prosperity. As the Centre evolves, new research streams will be added, depending on other funding opportunities, potential research partnerships, and demands from policymakers, civil society organisations and businesses. Professors Ha-Joon Chang and Antonio Andreoni in the SOAS Economics Department co-direct the CSST.
About you
The Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Researcher is expected to have a strong training in relevant disciplines, including economics, development studies, geography, business, politics and engineering. The candidate will have had a rigorous methodological training in either quantitative or qualitative methods and will be able to collect and use different types of evidence to inform research and policy-relevant analyses. Regional expertise in Africa and Southeast Asia, and/or experiences in comparative analysis, experiences in relevant sectors and policy areas are desirable, although not necessary.
The candidate will have, or be close to completing, a PhD in relevant disciplines.
What We Offer:
We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and work-life balance:
- Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 5 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
- Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
- Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future
- Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
- Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
- Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
- Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.
How to Apply:
Please complete the online application form and upload your CV, your two top publications or working papers, and a supporting statement.
Closing date: 9th August 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
Interviews to be held: 20th August 2026.
Further information
Please note that the application system does not currently have a save-and-return feature. To avoid losing any information, we strongly encourage you to complete and submit your application in one sitting. Make sure you have all necessary details ready before you begin.
Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.
We may be able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.
If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS
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