"Senior Research Associate in Stakeholder Engagement"

Senior Research Associate in Stakeholder Engagement

Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK

(Full-Time/Indefinite with End Date)

Interview date: Monday 30th March 2026

The Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and enthusiastic post-doctoral researcher to contribute a research project focused on creating safer ocean industries, funded by a grant from the Lloyds Register Foundation. The role involves identifying and working with stakeholders who are able to support increased corporate reporting transparency for ocean industry companies around the topics of safer working conditions, engagement with communities and due diligence along supply chains.

This is a full-time role, with some flexibility to allow part-time if required (enquiries welcome) based in Lancaster, with at least 3 days per week in person. Travel for collaborations may be required. The contract is for up to 2 years (end date 31st March 2028), with opportunities to apply for further funding to extend the post.

Candidates with any background that is relevant to this research will be considered. Preferred candidates will have a PhD or equivalent, with relevant experience in understanding social impacts of corporate behaviour (in labour, community and/or supply chain contexts). Experience of working with practice communities (including business entities and NGOs) on social sustainable issues would be highly valued. A proactive and enthusiastic approach, good interpersonal and teamwork skills, an ability to work with diverse project partners, and a vision for impact-driven science are all essential.

The Pentland Centre for Sustainability in Business offers a highly collegial and stimulating environment for career development, with a strong culture of Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity considerations and actions. You will be supported in your career development by a high-quality training package, with specific budget and time allocated to meet their training needs. Applicants from outside the UK will be supported with visa application processes and costs. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. We are committed to family-friendly and flexible working policies on an individual basis, and welcome informal enquiries about flexible working arrangements.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview with at least one week’s notice, with interviews likely to happen on March 16th. The successful candidate will be able to start from 1st April 2026 onwards. The position is for up to two years (end date 31st March 2028), but we will seek opportunities to extend this timeframe, e.g. supporting grant and fellowship applications.

Informal enquiries – e.g. the scope of the research or working arrangements – are welcome to Prof Jan Bebbington (j.bebbington1@lancaster.ac.uk).

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