Early Career Scholar x3
Fixed-term: 12 months.
The Department of Politics and International Studies at the University of Cambridge invites applications for 3 places on a new prestigious 12-month Early Career Scholar programme starting in September 2026. This programme is designed for early career researchers (who must have been awarded their PhD no more than one year prior to the start date for this programme*), and provides mentoring and training in teaching and research to enhance future career prospects. A full learning program will be designed for each scholar and will be discussed in full as part of induction and probation.
The programme is open to applicants with a proven specialist academic interest in one of the following:
- Middle East politics
- Comparative politics
- International relations
Early Career Scholars will be expected to build their research profile and to contribute to the teaching, supervising and examination of undergraduates and Masters students. Contribution to teaching may include course development and innovation. The Early Career Scholars will participate in the overall contribution to the Department where appropriate.
POLIS is a self-consciously pluralistic department, reflected in the disciplinary diversity of our academic members and their wide-ranging approaches to the study of politics. An academic mentor will be assigned to those on the programme, to provide guidance and advice on each aspect of their development. Supervising students will form a significant part of the role.
Some research money will be available for research expenses and conference attendance throughout the duration of this post.
Applications are due by midnight (GMT) on 14th May 2026 and should include:
- A Curriculum Vitae
- A cover letter outlining your interest in the ECS programme and how your skills and experience will complement the Department's profile.
*If you apply but have not yet been awarded your PhD, we will require formal confirmation that by the application closing date, you have submitted your thesis and have a date for your examination already in place.
Interviews are expected to be conducted in June 2026 and may be conducted either online or in person.
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
Please email Director of Undergraduate Studies, Dr Tomas Larsson thl33@cam.ac.uk if you have further queries regarding the scope of the programme. Questions regarding the application process should be directed to bom@polis.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference UE49539 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Key information
Department/location
Department of Politics and International Studies
Salary
£35,608-£46,049
Reference
UE49539
Category
Academic-related
Date published
29 April 2026
Closing date
14 May 2026
Download further information
Further Particulars of the role
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