Manchester Law School is seeking an outstanding and motivated Research Associate to join our growing research community in disability legal studies. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to high-quality, impactful research focusing on mental capacity law within the context of health and social care law and policy.

Working with Professor Beverley Clough, you will play a central role in developing innovative socio-legal research informed by the principles of disability justice. You will contribute to the production of internationally recognised research outputs, help shape future research projects and engage with academic, policy and professional audiences through publications, conferences and collaborative partnerships.

This role is ideal for an ambitious researcher looking to develop their academic profile while making a meaningful contribution to research that has the potential to influence law, policy and practice.

About the role

As Research Associate, you will:

  • Undertake literature reviews, legal and policy analysis, and case law research.
  • Conduct high-quality socio-legal research in disability legal studies, with a particular focus on mental capacity law.
  • Analyse and synthesise complex research findings to produce high-quality academic publications.
  • Present research at conferences, seminars and other academic and professional events.
  • Support the development of new research projects and funding opportunities.
  • Build collaborative relationships with academic colleagues, external organisations and stakeholders.
  • Contribute to a vibrant and supportive research culture within Manchester Law School.

About you

You will be an enthusiastic and collaborative researcher with:

  • A doctorate in law or a closely related discipline.
  • Significant research experience in disability legal studies.
  • Expertise in mental capacity law, disability law, health and social care law or closely related fields.
  • Experience of undertaking independent research and producing high-quality academic outputs.
  • Excellent analytical, written and communication skills.
  • Experience presenting research at national or international conferences.
  • The ability to develop productive partnerships with academic and external collaborators.
  • Experience using legal research databases and socio-legal research methods.

Why join us?

Manchester Metropolitan University is home to a thriving and internationally recognised research community. Manchester Law School has a strong reputation for impactful socio-legal research that addresses contemporary legal and social challenges.

Joining our team offers the opportunity to:

  • Work alongside leading academics in disability legal studies.
  • Contribute to research with real-world impact on law, policy and practice.
  • Develop your publication profile and research leadership experience.
  • Build national and international research collaborations.
  • Be part of an inclusive, ambitious and supportive academic environment.

If you are passionate about advancing disability justice through high-quality legal research and want to contribute to an exciting programme of work, we would be delighted to hear from you.

To apply: Please attach your CV and covering letter to the online portal

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from all local and international communities, including Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.      

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.      

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources, and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.      

Manchester Met is a Disability Confident Leader and, under this scheme, aims to offer an interview to disabled people who apply for the role and meet the essential criteria as listed in the attached Job Description for that vacancy.  

 
 
 

Details

  • Location:
    Manchester All Saints Campus
  • Faculty / Function:
    Business & Law
  • Salary:
    Grade 8 (£41,064 to £47,389)
  • Closing Date:
    4 August 2026
  • Contract Type:
    Fixed Term
  • Contract Length:
    6 months
  • Contracted Hours per week:
    37

Benefits

35 days leave + Christmas closure + Bank holidays
Travel loan
Wellbeing platform
Life insurance
Access to Campus Facilities
Enhanced parental leave
High-quality guaranteed pension

Meet the recruiter

Michelle Legg

M.Legg@mmu.ac.uk

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