Job Summary Table of Research Associate

📋 Job Description Summary

The Department of Political Economy at King’s College London seeks a Research Associate for a groundbreaking one-year project exploring the intersection of market economies and environmental sustainability, funded by the prestigious John Templeton Foundation.

🎯 Key Responsibilities

The Research Associate position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in market economies and sustainability. As a Research Associate, you will engage in comprehensive academic research that examines the complex relationships between different market economy models and their environmental implications.

• Conduct Independent Research: Lead independent academic research on market economies, economic growth, and sustainability within the framework of the “Market Economies and Green Ideals” project
• Academic Publication Development: Develop high-quality academic papers and book manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and academic presses
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Collaborate with researchers across multiple disciplines including economics, political science, philosophy, and environmental studies
• Research Contribution: Contribute to the daily research activities of the Centre for the Study of Governance and Society (CSGS) and the Department of Political Economy
• Project Analysis: Analyze different models of market systems including liberal, missionary, and stakeholder approaches to economic organization
• Environmental Justice Research: Investigate the relationship between market economies, freedom, and environmental justice from various theoretical perspectives
• Academic Networking: Participate in academic conferences, workshops, and seminars to present research findings and engage with the broader academic community

💼 Benefits and Perks

King’s College London offers Research Associate positions with comprehensive benefits that support both professional development and personal well-being.

• Competitive Salary Package: Annual salary ranging from £44,355 to £51,735, including London Weighting Allowance to support living costs in the capital
• Professional Development Opportunities: Access to extensive training programs, conferences, and academic development resources
• Research Support: Full access to King’s College London’s world-class library resources, databases, and research facilities
• Central London Location: Work at the prestigious Strand Campus in the heart of London with proximity to political institutions and financial centers
• Academic Environment: Join a unique interdisciplinary department that combines politics, philosophy, and economics in innovative ways
• International Recognition: Contribute to research projects with global impact and international collaboration opportunities
• Career Advancement: Build valuable experience for future academic or policy career paths in sustainability and market economics

🏛️ Company Overview

King’s College London stands as one of the world’s leading research universities, with a distinguished history dating back to 1829. The Department of Political Economy, established in 2010, represents the United Kingdom’s only dedicated department focused on political economy research. This Research Associate position places you at the center of groundbreaking interdisciplinary research that bridges politics, economics, and philosophy.

The department’s unique approach recognizes that understanding political processes requires deep exploration of economic contexts and value systems. Research Associate positions at King’s College London provide exceptional opportunities to engage with complex questions about market economies and their relationship to sustainability challenges. The department’s location in central London offers unparalleled access to political institutions, financial markets, and international organizations.

🌟 Company Culture

The Research Associate role at King’s College London exists within a vibrant, inclusive academic community that celebrates diversity and intellectual curiosity. The Department of Political Economy fosters a collaborative environment where Research Associate positions contribute to meaningful discussions about pressing global challenges.

King’s College London prides itself on creating an inclusive workplace where Research Associate staff from all backgrounds feel valued and connected. The university’s commitment to diversity extends throughout all Research Associate positions and academic roles. The department encourages interdisciplinary thinking and welcomes Research Associate researchers who bring diverse perspectives to market economies and sustainability research.

The Centre for the Study of Governance and Society provides an intellectually stimulating environment for Research Associate positions, promoting rigorous academic inquiry while maintaining collegial relationships among researchers, faculty, and students.

📈 Career Growth Opportunities

This Research Associate position offers substantial career development prospects in academia, policy research, and sustainability consulting. Research Associate experience at King’s College London provides valuable credentials for future academic appointments, think tank positions, or policy advisory roles.

The interdisciplinary nature of this Research Associate role develops versatile skills applicable across multiple career paths. Successful Research Associate candidates often progress to lecturer positions, senior research roles, or policy advisor positions in government and international organizations. The project’s focus on market economies and sustainability aligns with growing career opportunities in environmental policy and sustainable development.

Research Associate positions at King’s College London offer networking opportunities with leading academics, policymakers, and industry professionals working on sustainability challenges and market economy research.

🤝 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

King’s College London demonstrates unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all Research Associate positions and academic roles. The university actively works to develop candidate pools that include applicants from all backgrounds and communities for Research Associate positions.

The department recognizes that diverse perspectives strengthen research on market economies and sustainability. Research Associate positions welcome candidates from various disciplinary backgrounds, including anthropology, economics, geography, philosophy, political science, and sociology. This inclusive approach to Research Associate recruitment ensures rich, multifaceted research outcomes.

⚖️ Equal Opportunity Statement

King’s College London is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing Research Associate positions and all employment opportunities without discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status. All Research Associate applications receive fair consideration based on merit and qualifications.

🏠 Remote Work Policy

This Research Associate position requires on-site presence at the Strand Campus in London. While remote work arrangements are not available for this particular Research Associate role, the university provides excellent facilities and resources to support in-person research activities. The central London location offers convenient transportation links and access to numerous academic and cultural resources that enhance the Research Associate experience.

📝 Application Process

The application process for this Research Associate position involves several carefully designed steps to identify the most qualified candidates:

1. Submit Complete Application: Provide a comprehensive CV highlighting relevant research experience and academic achievements for Research Associate positions
2. Supporting Statement: Submit a detailed supporting statement demonstrating how your background aligns with the Research Associate role requirements
3. Academic References: Arrange for academic references that can speak to your research capabilities and potential for success in Research Associate positions
4. Interview Process: Participate in interviews scheduled for September 2025 with department faculty and research staff

⏰ Application Deadline

Applications for this Research Associate position must be submitted by 31 July 2025. Early submission is encouraged as the department may begin reviewing Research Associate applications on a rolling basis.

📧 How to Apply

To apply for this Research Associate position, visit the King’s College London jobs portal at the official application link. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your qualifications for Research Associate positions and your specific interest in market economies and sustainability research.

Contact Professor Mark Pennington at mark.pennington@kcl.ac.uk for specific questions about this Research Associate opportunity or the research project.

📱 Social Media Links

• King’s College London LinkedIn
• King’s College London Twitter
• Department of Political Economy

❓ FAQs or Additional Information

Q: Can candidates who have submitted their PhD thesis but are awaiting degree confirmation apply for this Research Associate position?

A: Yes, candidates awaiting PhD confirmation may apply. Such appointments begin as Research Assistant positions at Grade 5, spine point 30, with promotion to Research Associate status upon PhD confirmation.

Q: Does this Research Associate position offer visa sponsorship?

A: Yes, King’s College London can provide sponsorship for Research Associate candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.

Q: What makes this Research Associate position unique?

A: This Research Associate role combines cutting-edge sustainability research with market economy analysis in the UK’s only dedicated Department of Political Economy, offering exceptional interdisciplinary research opportunities.

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