Research Fellow (Relational Processes - Relationality) - (7459)

Fellowship Opportunity: Relational Processes (Relationality)

Relational Processes (Relationality) at Manchester Metropolitan:

The study of relationality focuses on the dynamic and context dependent connections between individuals. This field is computationally, practically and theoretically complex and many key relational developmental theories remain untested empirically and the processes by which relational interventions are effective is largely unknown.

Excitingly, with recent advancements in data science, digital tools pioneered by our group based in the Department of Psychology, alongside our unique connections and availability of rich international longitudinal cohort data across generations and linkage to health and social care records research, we can take the macro-meso-micro complexity of relational models from abstract theoretical space into real world application. With our strengths in co-creation, partnerships within creative arts, frontline experience of relational interventions and access and connections with multiple national and intergenerational data sets including 1000s of videos of family interactions, we have unique opportunities for robust, meaningful and creative relational research. In particular, observations of dyadic behaviour from films can now be analysed at scale using artificial intelligence emotion reading software to radicalise understanding. Use of film also forms the basis of effective interventions such as video feedback.

Work by academics in Manchester Metropolitan University through large internationally funding programs, has potential to innovate and scale video feedback, through a co-designed first-person perspective wearable camera and software. Our strengths across the faculty in child development, epidemiology and education and within diverse academic teams including professors, lecturers, research assistants and PhD students. We have strong links to the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Eco System, including mental health trusts, the GMCA's School Readiness Board, multi academy trusts, family hubs, the Community and Voluntary Sector, other universities and all 10 localities (local authorities and city councils).

About the role:

• To undertake world-leading and internationally excellent research using latest and innovative methodologies, as relevant in your area of research. 

• To prepare, present and publish research outputs through the appropriate forums e.g. research workshops, conferences, seminars, exhibitions, portfolios, academic journals etc. 

• To develop ideas for generating income to ensure the continued success and growth of research portfolio.  

• To disseminate findings of research widely to further the institution's standing in the HE and research community and strengthen the impact of the research.

• To engage in scholarly activities conducive to a long-term successful academic career that will support and enhance the research culture within the Department/ School, Faculty and University.

About the candidate: 

You will have a background in developmental science and relational theory with a focus on understanding relational processes and strengthening relationships across systems. You will be publishing outstanding research in developmental psychology, epidemiology, public-engagement, and co-creation. 

Requirements: 

• Doctoral level qualification in a related research area. 

• Possess breadth or depth of specialist knowledge and demonstrate potential for research independence.

• Excellent track record of relevant research outputs. 

• Significant research experience in the chosen field of research, which should include where appropriate: 
  • leading the work of a team, co-ordinating effort and resources to meet objectives 
  • developing partnerships within the University and with external agencies 
  • preparing funding proposals and applications to external bodies 
  • using initiative, creativity and judgement to develop appropriate approaches to research 
  • synthesising complex data from different sources and communicating findings via written reports and articles 
  • presenting at national and/or international research meetings 
  • supervising student work and providing appropriate support and feedback. 

• Experience of managing and monitoring performance of research projects in multi-disciplinary teams.

• Ability to manage projects involving academic institutions and funding bodies. 

Please refer to the Job Description & Person Specification for a full list of essential & desirable criteria. 

Academic Contact: Prof Rebecca Pearson (R.Pearson@mmu.ac.uk) and Prof Deborah James (Deborah.James@mmu.ac.uk) to discuss the fellowship opportunity in detail. 

Application Process:

To apply to the Fellowship, please provide the following documents: 

• Research Interest Statement (no more than two sides of A4, font size 11, 2 cms margin): Statement should include your long-term career aspirations, how your research till date and plans to develop and contribute towards your research interest in the future will impact the University's Research Strategy whilst working with an existing team of researchers.  

• Research Proposal (no more than four sides of A4, font size 11, 2 cm margins): Kindly provide a research proposal focused on a specific topic within the research faculty you are applying for. The proposal should be accompanied by a Gantt chart outlining a 3-year research timeline.  

• Curriculum Vitae (include details of your education, citizenship, publications, funding, employment history & names of referees) 

Please note that panels will not consider attachments that fall outside of the limits, where specified. 

We aim to offer up to a maximum of 15 fellow appointments, for which we will be assessing applicants competitively across the four faculties that are welcoming applications. 

Assessment Timelines: 

• The application window will be available for 8 weeks and will close on 29 May 2024
• Interviews will be held on-site in Manchester (where practical) in the w/c 17 and 24 June 2024
• We aim to make offers to successful candidates in the w/c 03 July 2024

Enquiries:  

If you haven't found your specific area of research, please click here to sign up to our job alerts. 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us on researchfellowships@mmu.ac.uk   

Manchester Met University is committed to creating an intentionally inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We understand the importance of having a diverse workforce and the benefits it can bring to ensuring diversity of thought and innovation in everything we do. We, therefore, encourage applications from our local and international communities, in particular people from ethnic minority groups, disabled people and people who identify as LGBTQIA+.    

We recognise the benefits and importance of an environment that supports flexible working and are open to conversations about this throughout the application process.  

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