Research Associate: PACT Centre

## Opportunity Review: Research Associate at Lancaster University's PACT Centre This review provides insights into the Research Associate position at Lancaster University's new Production and Consumption Transformations (PACT) research centre, designed to help potential candidates assess its fit within their career trajectory.

This Research Associate role presents a compelling opportunity for individuals eager to contribute to impactful climate policy research at an early stage of their career. The PACT centre, a significant initiative jointly funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), offers a unique platform to engage with critical climate challenges and influence real-world policy decisions.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Researchers:

• Direct Policy Impact: With 35% of the project funding coming from DESNZ, you will have the distinct advantage of working directly with policymakers. This hands-on engagement means your research will be geared towards delivering actionable insights that can directly shape climate policies, offering a tangible sense of purpose and contribution.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: You will be immersed in a vibrant research ecosystem, collaborating with leading academics across three prestigious universities: Lancaster, Leeds, and Sussex. This cross-institutional collaboration fosters a rich environment for diverse perspectives and cutting-edge research methodologies.
• Specialized Research Focus: The role zeroes in on crucial areas of climate policy: institutional decision-making and public engagement. This specialization allows for deep development of expertise in these critical fields, which are increasingly important for achieving climate goals.
• Career Development Support: The position is specifically designed to support researchers at an early stage of their careers. It offers an excellent opportunity to gain substantial research and project management experience within a well-supported academic and policy environment.
• Research Excellence Environment: Based at Lancaster University, a research-intensive institution with a high proportion of world-leading and internationally excellent research, you will benefit from a stimulating and supportive academic atmosphere. You'll be joining the esteemed Climate Citizens research group and the wider Human Geographies Research Group.
• Work-Life Balance: Lancaster University is committed to promoting a healthy work-life balance for its employees, offering a supportive environment that values individual well-being.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Fixed-Term Contract: The position is funded for 25 months (pro-rata for part-time). While this provides a focused period for intensive research and project development, candidates should consider their long-term career aspirations beyond this timeframe.
• "Equivalent Research Experience" is Valued: While a PhD is not a mandatory requirement, the role seeks candidates with demonstrable research experience. This could be academic research or experience gained in different settings related to government decision-making processes or social research on climate/energy attitudes. Clearly articulating your relevant experience will be crucial.
• Specific Research Areas: A strong understanding or experience in one or both of the following areas will be highly beneficial:
  • Decision-making cultures, processes, and structures within government.
  • Social research examining public views, values, and attitudes towards climate and energy policies.
• Bridging Academia and Policy: This role requires a candidate who can effectively translate complex academic research into practical, policy-relevant insights. The ability to communicate findings clearly and persuasively to both academic and non-academic audiences is a key asset.

This Research Associate position at Lancaster University offers an exceptional springboard for early-career researchers looking to make a tangible impact on climate policy. The combination of direct policy engagement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a supportive research environment makes it a highly attractive opportunity for those passionate about addressing climate change.