Full time, Permanent
We are looking to recruit four open ended contract postdoctoral research associate posts to work on the 'Clash Narratives in Context: Uncovering the Social and Cultural Drivers of Contemporary Science vs. Religion Debates' project within the newly created University Research Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations. We would welcome applications from experienced, enthusiastic and creative humanities and social science early career researchers.
There is a surprising and significant gap in current social science and humanities research into the nature of contemporary public domain discussions about the relationship between science and religion as a phenomenon in its own right. We subsequently have little understanding of how the mainstream representations of this debate fit with the lived experience of individuals. This large scale multidisciplinary project will build an empirical and theoretical understanding of what social and cultural factors have driven, and are currently driving, the narrative in the public domain that there is a necessary clash between religious belief and belonging and acceptance of evolutionary science.
This innovative and unique research project will employ four intersecting approaches: qualitative social science field research; oral history, historical and media discourse analysis; social psychology experimental research; and a large scale quantitative survey of public perceptions, attitudes and identity formation in the UK and Canada.
Coventry University will lead this 3-year research project funded by the Templeton Religion Trust in partnership with York University (Canada) and National Life Stories at the British Library and British Science Association. The research team is led by Principal Investigators Dr Fern Elsdon-Baker (Coventry) and Prof. Bernard Lightman (York, Canada), and Co-Investigators Dr Carola Leicht (Coventry) and Dr Rebecca Catto (Coventry). The project will commence 1st October 2014.
The four posts are:
Strand 1: Qualitative Social Sciences Research Associate
Strand 2: History, Philosophy or Social Studies of Science Research Associate
Strand 3: Social/Experimental or Psychology Postdoctoral Research Associate
Strand 4:Quantitative social studies Postdoctoral Research Associate
Candidates should have a clear idea of how their own programme of research can contribute to the development of this project and field of study, with a view to making a long-term commitment to Coventry University and progressing their research career in this field beyond the initial three years project based post. The posts will be open-ended contracts, following successful completion of sufficient probationary period. A wide-ranging interest in social or historical study of science and religion is an advantage, as is a desire to work in a multidisciplinary environment.
Applicants should apply online, making explicit reference to how they meet the person specification provided. Specific questions can be directed to Dr Fern Elsdon-Baker by email only (Fern.Elsdon-Baker@coventry.ac.uk)
Please click here for the job description and person specification
Interviews: 6th-9th May 2014
