Research Associate in Political Theory

Loughborough University - School of Social Sciences and Humanities

Part time (0.8), fixed term starting on 6th July 2026 until 30th June 2029

The School of Social Sciences and Humanities is seeking to appoint a Research Associate for a three-year project in political theory entitled, The Right to Liveability: An Ethical Assessment. You will undertake original research and contribute to the running of the project in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr. Guy Aitchison.

The Leverhulme Trust-funded project examines the issues of social and democratic justice raised by the unequal distribution of suicide and mental distress between groups. It uses an interdisciplinary approach that combines philosophical analysis of moral issues with interviews with individuals with lived experience. It considers arguments for a ‘right to liveability’ - a moral right to be protected from social conditions that elevate mental distress and suicide – and explains how this can shape policy-making.

Core research areas include: theories of human rights; theories of social justice; theories of democratic justice; the ethics of suicide and assisted dying; mental distress, suicide and social disadvantage.

You will have the opportunity to undertake your own distinctive research within the framework of the project as a whole. You will also support the PI with their research; contribute to the everyday running of the project; organise and conduct interviews in the UK; organise meetings and a conference; disseminate findings both independently and in collaboration with the PI.

You should have a PhD in Political Theory, Philosophy, Ethics, Public Health or a relevant area, an ability to conduct and publish high quality academic research in support of the project goals and excellent communication and organisational skills.

For more information refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.

Staff from under-represented groups in higher education and the discipline, including those from racialised minorities, who have a physical or invisible disability, or are neurodivergent, are particularly encouraged to apply. The University is a Disability Confident employer, a member of the Stonewall Diversity Champion Scheme and holds Race Equality Charter and Athena SWAN bronze awards.

Informal enquiries about the role should be directed to Dr. Guy Aitchison, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Studies at Loughborough University: g.aitchison@lboro.ac.uk

Further information on International Relations, Politics & History can be found here: International Relations, Politics and History | Loughborough University

Application Process

For further support with your application, please refer to our application guidance, which includes some top tips to help you when completing your application. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process.

If there are additional adjustments, you’d like to request please contact SSH.HR@lboro.ac.uk. We also offer reasonable adjustments on the job.

Closing date for receipt of applications: 23rd April 2026

Interviews will be held: week beginning 18th May 2026

Loughborough University is committed to allowing its employees to work dynamically with a combination of working on campus and remotely, where possible.

Our Benefits

We’re committed to creating an environment where you can flourish. You’ll enjoy generous time off, including 14 university closure days and bank holidays, plus a holiday purchase scheme. Other benefits include flexible and hybrid working options, family-friendly support, world-class sporting facilities, and a wide range of financial, health, and sustainability perks. Discover more about our full range of rewards and benefits.