Creative Manchester Research Associate (Maternity Leave Cover)

We are seeking a motivated and collaborative individual to join our team as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Creative Manchester (Maternity Cover). This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to interdisciplinary, impact-focused research within the Creative Manchester Research Platform, working across themes including creative industries, civic futures, and creativity, health and wellbeing. You will join a dynamic and inclusive research environment, engaging with academic colleagues, cultural institutions and community partners.

This is a full-time, fixed-term post for 9 months from 1 September 2026, based at the University’s Oxford Road campus.

You will be responsible for:

• Undertaking high-quality research aligned to Creative Manchester themes, producing peer-reviewed outputs
• Supporting and contributing to collaborative research projects, including data analysis, reporting and grant development
• Designing and delivering engagement activities that translate research into positive societal impact
• Presenting research at conferences, seminars and public events
• Building partnerships with cultural organisations, community groups and external stakeholders

We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work.

About You

We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate:

Essential Criteria:

• A PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
• A developing track record of high-quality research aligned to Creative Manchester themes
• Experience of delivering impactful research activities beyond academia
• Experience working with community groups, cultural organisations or external partners
• Excellent organisational, communication and team-working skills

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience contributing to research grant applications or externally funded projects
• Experience in interdisciplinary research environments

We value creativity, collaboration and a commitment to research that delivers real-world impact as much as formal qualifications.

Our benefits include:

• Generous employer pension contribution
• 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
• Access to professional development and interdisciplinary research networks