Research Fellow: Political Ecology of Infrastructural-Ecological-Citizenship

Full Time, Fixed Term for 24 Months

Applications are sought for a committed Political Ecology Post-Doctoral Research Fellow to work with Dr Jessica Hope (University of St Andrews) on the European Research Council-funded project Roads to Sustainability: exploring the infrastructures of a sustainable future. As part of a team of 2 post-doctoral researchers, 16 Indigenous researchers, and the PI, you will investigate road building in the Western Amazon and the emancipatory possibilities of alternative infrastructures. Specifically, you will work on infrastructural-ecological-citizenship in Iquitos, Peru.

The primary research duties will be to:

• Design and implement research on infrastructural-ecological-citizenship in Iquitos, Peru – an Amazonian city with no connecting road;
• Conduct data collection, analysis, and dissemination of research findings through high-quality publications;
• Collaborate with the project team and project partners on findings and outputs, contributing to developing a new form of political ecology, infrastructural political ecology;
• Co-plan and co-deliver a hybrid research event between Latin America and the UK;
• Contribute to the project’s web page and social media accounts.

More broadly, the successful applicant will also be expected to:

• Maintain a strong focus on publishing in leading journals and presenting research at relevant conferences and workshops;
• Contribute to the school's academic life, including research groups and supporting project-related events.

As a PDRF in the School of Geography and Sustainable Development, you will join a research-active school and be supported by the PI in your career progression.

The successful applicant will have (or be near to completion of) a PhD in Political Ecology, Human Geography, Social Anthropology, Development Studies, History, Philosophy, International Relations, or a related discipline; Expertise in conducting qualitative research, ideally in Latin America; advanced Spanish and English language skills; and excellent research communication and management skills are essential.

The post is available for 24 months starting 01 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.