Postdoctoral Research Associate in Education, Sociology, or Human Geography – Spatial Belonging in Higher Education University of Reading in United Kingdom

The University of Reading is seeking a Post-Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to join a new Leverhulme Trust-funded project led by Professor Billy Wong, focusing on spatial belonging, inclusion, and exclusion in higher education. This full-time, fixed-term position is based in the Institute of Education and will run for 36 months, starting 1 May 2026. The project aims to explore how physical, digital, relational, and structural spaces shape students’ sense of belonging, inclusion, and exclusion across multiple English universities.

The successful candidate will play a central role in designing and delivering qualitative fieldwork, including interviews, photovoice case studies, and collaborative discussion groups. The research will utilize strong qualitative methodologies, with an emphasis on participatory and visual methods, and will contribute to refining the spatial belonging framework. The project is ideal for candidates with a background in education, sociology, or human geography, and a strong interest in space, inequality, and belonging in higher education.

Applicants must have a PhD (or evidence of thesis submission) in a relevant social science field, strong qualitative research skills (including experience with interviews, thematic analysis, and NVivo or similar software), and experience with participatory and visual methods such as photovoice, mapping, or digital ethnography. Knowledge of higher education contexts, inequalities, and issues of belonging, identity, or student experience is essential. The role requires excellent communication and organizational skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and willingness to travel for data collection and work on-site at the University of Reading’s London Road campus in line with hybrid working expectations.

The position offers a competitive salary (£36,636 - £42,254 per annum), hybrid working flexibility, and opportunities for professional development. The University of Reading is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equality, supporting the Athena SWAN and Race Equality Charters, and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. The application deadline is 4 March 2026, with interviews scheduled for 13 March 2026. For further information and to apply, visit the University of Reading job portal or contact Professor Billy Wong at [email protected].