Pembroke College, University of Oxford Invites Applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Global Security 2025/26
Pembroke College, University of Oxford, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Junior Research Fellowship in Global Security, commencing in November 2025 or as soon as possible thereafter. This one-year appointment offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career scholars to contribute to cutting-edge research on global security, cross-border dynamics, and illicit flows in an era of geopolitical transformation.
Research Focus and Project Context
The Fellow will join the research project Contested Cross-border Spaces, Illicit Flows, and Order in the Contemporary World, funded by UK International Development through the Cross-Border Conflict Evidence, Policy & Trends (XCEPT) programme. The project is hosted within the Global Security Programme at Pembroke College, under the direction of Dr Annette Idler, a leading scholar in conflict, security, and transnational governance.
The initiative seeks to understand how cross-border zones operate as complex, contested spaces where governance, security, and illicit economies intersect. Through this work, the project aims to generate evidence-based insights that inform international policy, development interventions, and global security strategies. The Postdoctoral Fellow will play a key role in advancing the project’s empirical and analytical components, particularly in developing innovative methodologies for data analysis and visualization.
Role and Responsibilities
The appointed Fellow will support the collection, integration, and analysis of mixed-methods data, combining quantitative, qualitative, and geospatial approaches. This includes working with satellite imagery, open-source intelligence, and quantitative datasets to map and interpret conflict-related trends across regions.
The successful candidate will contribute to the creation of interactive digital outputs, assisting in translating research findings into accessible formats for both academic and policy audiences. Additional responsibilities include co-authoring publications, presenting at international conferences, and engaging with interdisciplinary research teams.
By fostering collaboration across political science, security studies, data science, and geospatial analysis, the fellowship offers an unparalleled platform for developing new tools and perspectives in the study of global security.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a PhD/DPhil in Political Science, International Relations, Security Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, or a closely related discipline. A strong methodological foundation in quantitative analysis is essential, alongside proficiency in R and the ability to design digital visualizations.
Experience working with satellite imagery or geospatial analysis is desirable, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on spatial data and digital research tools. Candidates should demonstrate intellectual curiosity, technical competence, and the capacity to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required, as the role involves contributing to research dissemination and policy engagement.
Compensation and Benefits
The successful candidate will receive an annual salary in the range of £38,700–£41,700, depending on experience. In addition to salary, the post offers several benefits, including:
- Lunch in the College Hall when kitchens are open.
- Access to the Senior Common Room (SCR).
- Membership of the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS) pension plan.
The position also provides access to Pembroke College’s thriving intellectual community and world-class academic resources, as well as professional development support through workshops, seminars, and collaboration opportunities across the University of Oxford.
Application Process
Applications should be submitted by 9:00 a.m. (UK BST) on Friday, 31 October 2025 via email to [email protected]. Each application must include:
- A letter of application detailing the candidate’s research interests, relevant experience, and motivation for applying.
- A comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV) outlining higher education background, publications, and research achievements.
- The names, positions, and contact details of two academic referees. References will be requested only from shortlisted candidates.
Applicants are also encouraged to complete the Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form, available on the Pembroke College website. Completion of this form is voluntary but appreciated, as it helps the College promote fairness and inclusion across its recruitment processes.
Commitment to Equality, Inclusion, and Sustainability
Pembroke College fosters a diverse and inclusive community where all individuals are valued and supported. The College encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to accommodate applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process and employment period.
In addition, Pembroke College is committed to environmental sustainability, striving toward net zero carbon emissions and biodiversity net gain. Sustainability is embedded across its operations and decision-making, reinforcing the College’s dedication to global responsibility and social impact.
All personal data provided by applicants will be used solely for the purpose of determining suitability for the role, in accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018.
This fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity for an emerging scholar to contribute to high-impact research at the intersection of security, governance, and development, while benefiting from Oxford’s vibrant academic environment.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
