Research Associate - Political Economy (POPGOV Project)

Research Associate - Political Economy (POPGOV Project)

King's College London - London, United Kingdom (Strand Campus)

General Description King's College London is seeking a Research Associate to contribute to the ERC Synergy research project "Popular Government in Global Perspective (POPGOV)" within the Department of Political Economy, part of the Faculty of Social Science & Public Policy.

The Department of Political Economy is a unique interdisciplinary unit founded in 2010 and the only dedicated department of its kind in the United Kingdom. It integrates Politics, Philosophy, and Economics to explore how political processes, economic systems, and societal values intersect.

The appointed candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Udit Bhatia as part of an international collaboration with co-investigators from leading institutions including LSE, UC Louvain, and the University of Girona. The research will focus on popular government systems that empower ordinary citizens, particularly in the Global South, with case studies including constitutional moments in Chile, India, and South Africa. Candidates may also propose alternative case studies aligned with the project's objectives.

The role is research-focused with no teaching responsibilities. The successful applicant will contribute to interdisciplinary collaboration, integrate findings with the broader research consortium, and develop a strong academic profile for future tenure track opportunities. Responsibilities include conducting independent and collaborative research, producing scholarly outputs, and participating in project meetings and fieldwork.

The position requires travel for fieldwork and biannual project meetings, which will rotate between London, Girona, and Brussels. This is a full time (35 hours per week), fixed term position from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2030. Research staff are entitled to at least 10 days per year for professional development under the Concordat to Support the Career Development of Researchers.

King's College London is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse academic environment and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Interviews are expected to take place in May 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

• PhD completed (or near completion) in political science, history, or a related field by the start date
• Candidates who have submitted their thesis and are awaiting award may be considered (initial appointment as Research Assistant until PhD confirmation)
• Demonstrated ability to undertake independent and collaborative research

Required Expertise/Skills

• Strong quantitative, historical, and theoretical research skills
• Ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary and diverse research teams
• Capacity to address complex research problems creatively
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Ability to work independently and manage research responsibilities
• Experience publishing in peer reviewed journals and presenting research
• Experience collaborating on academic projects
• Familiarity with historical, empirical, comparative, and philosophical approaches to political analysis
• Administrative and organizational skills

Salary Details £45,031 to £48,607 per annum (including London Weighting Allowance)