Jason Hickel stands as a prominent academic, researcher, and author whose work profoundly influences discussions on global development, economic anthropology, and environmental sustainability. Currently serving as Professor of Global Development at University College London (UCL)'s Institute for Global Prosperity, he offers unique opportunities for scholars passionate about challenging conventional economic paradigms. Jobs at Jason Hickel - Academic, Researcher, Author typically involve collaborative research projects that delve into topics like degrowth, planetary boundaries, and the legacies of colonialism. These positions attract ambitious researchers seeking to contribute to high-impact publications and policy-influencing studies.
Working in this environment means engaging with cutting-edge debates on why endless economic growth may be incompatible with ecological limits. Hickel's profile on platforms like AcademicJobs.com highlights openings for research assistants, postdoctoral researchers, and sometimes PhD supervision slots. Whether you're exploring research jobs or aiming for a career in academia, aligning with his expertise can propel your trajectory in higher education.
His contributions, including bestselling books such as Less is More: How Degrowth Will Save the World (2020) and The Divide: A Brief Guide to Global Inequality and its Solutions (2017), underscore the intellectual rigor expected. Opportunities here emphasize interdisciplinary approaches, blending anthropology, economics, and ecology to address real-world crises.
Jason Hickel's journey began in South Africa, where he earned his early degrees before pursuing a PhD in anthropology from the University of Edinburgh in 2012. His dissertation explored HIV/AIDS responses in South Africa, laying the foundation for his interest in global health and inequality. Post-PhD, he held positions at institutions like Massey University in New Zealand and the University of the West of England, before joining the London School of Economics (LSE) as a lecturer in international development.
In 2020, Hickel transitioned to UCL, where he now leads research on prosperity beyond growth. This evolution reflects a commitment to evidence-based critiques of capitalism, informed by fieldwork across Africa, Latin America, and Europe. His TED talks and contributions to outlets like The Guardian have amplified his reach, making collaborations with him a gateway to influential networks.
Understanding this background is crucial for jobs at Jason Hickel, as projects often build on his two decades of scholarship. For instance, his involvement in the Global North-South Atlas of Justice project highlights data-driven approaches to fairer resource distribution.
Common roles include research assistants supporting data analysis and literature reviews, postdoctoral fellows leading sub-projects on degrowth metrics, and PhD studentships under his supervision. These align with broader university job types in higher education, such as postdoc positions or research assistant jobs.
These jobs emphasize fieldwork, econometric skills, and public engagement, mirroring trends in faculty roles.
To fully grasp opportunities with Jason Hickel, key terms include:
Securing jobs at Jason Hickel requires a solid academic foundation. A PhD in anthropology, development studies, geography, or economics is standard for postdoctoral roles, while research assistants need at least a master's degree with distinction.
Research focus must align with Hickel's expertise: critiques of GDP-centric development, ecological economics, and decolonial approaches. Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (e.g., in Ecological Economics), securing small grants, and international fieldwork. For example, experience analyzing World Bank data for inequality metrics is advantageous.
Essential skills encompass:
Competencies like critical thinking and ethical research practices are paramount, given his emphasis on justice-oriented scholarship. Read postdoctoral success tips to prepare.
The application process starts with monitoring UCL's job portal and Hickel's academic profiles for announcements. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter (1-2 pages explaining fit), research proposal (for postdocs), and 3 references.
Pro tips: Use winning academic CV strategies, network at conferences like EADI, and proofread meticulously. Avoid generic applications; specificity wins.
Hickel and UCL prioritize EDI. UCL's Action Plan includes race equality charters and mentoring for underrepresented groups. Hickel's global south focus invites diverse voices, with projects featuring African and Latin American collaborators. Specific examples: Participation in UCL's Decolonising Curriculum program and support for early-career scholars from low-income countries via fellowships. This fosters inclusive teams challenging Eurocentric narratives.
At UCL's Bloomsbury campus, work-life balance benefits from flexible scheduling, up to 27 days annual leave, and hybrid models post-COVID. Hickel's collaborative style encourages boundaries, with team meetings emphasizing sustainability—including personal well-being.
Campus life thrives in London: Proximity to British Library, vibrant seminars, and cultural events. Wellness includes yoga classes, counseling, and sports clubs. Researchers enjoy subsidised cafes and green spaces, balancing intense projects with city exploration. For parents, UCL offers creches and sabbaticals every 5 years.
Collaborating with Jason Hickel positions you at the forefront of transformative research, influencing policy and academia. With UCL's resources, expect mentorship leading to high-profile outputs. Explore more via higher ed jobs, career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com. Ready to apply? Check research jobs and prepare your profile today.
Recent blog insights like becoming a lecturer or excelling as a research assistant complement these opportunities.
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