Research Fellow in Food Aid and Food Systems CF)

Research Fellow in UKRI Food Aid Inequality Rectified (FAIR-food) 

We are delighted to welcome applications for a Research Fellow post within the FAIR-food project to develop substantial changes to the food aid system in areas of Wessex. 

FAIR-food is a UKRI funded project with the overall aim of supporting change in the food aid system, specifically food pantries in Southampton, the New Forest and the Isle of Wight. Working with local government, third sector partners and communities, we aim to deliver positive adaptations in the food aid system that can be applied elsewhere.  

The postholder will be responsible for a range of activities to support FAIR, with excellent opportunities for collaboration and publication. The role will be responsible for leading training and work with community researchers to co-design and evaluate interventions designed to improve quality of food available in food pantries in three areas in the south of England under the supervision of the project lead and co-leads. The postholder will lead engagement activities, including preparation of policy briefs and peer reviewed publications.  

This research position will be based in the School of Health Sciences within the Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, where Professor Barker is based. You will be part of a supportive group including other project Researchers, the Research Administrator, the wider academic team and colleagues working in local government and third sector organisations.  You will have the opportunity to engage with colleagues across the University of Southampton in social sciences, public health and business.  

To be successful in the role you will have, or will be close to completing, a PhD (or equivalent professional qualifications) with strong qualitative research methods skills in a relevant discipline (e.g. geography, public health, social policy); previous experience with community engagement with underserved populations; experience working with third sector  partners; the ability to plan and organise work independently and as part of a team; and the ability to write research presentations and papers for peer-reviewed publication.  

The research fellow post is full-time fixed term until 31 March 2028 with the possibility of an extension, subject to funding. 

The School of Health Sciences values diversity and equality and is open to a flexible working approach. Full consideration will be given to applicants that wish to work flexibly and those who have had career breaks.  We select candidates on the basis of merit and ability and aspire to thrive in the diversity of our workforce.  We welcome applications from all candidates with an interest in the role, and those who are committed to helping us create an inclusive work environment.  The University of Southampton is a founding signatory of the Athena Swan gender equality charter and holds a silver award.  

*Applications will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon completion of PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.  

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Prof. Dianna Smith  d.m.smith@soton.ac.uk or Prof Mary Barker meb@mrc.soton.ac.uk 

Closing Date: 23 May 2025

Section: Education, Research & Enterprise

Salary: £36,130 to £40,497 per annum Full Time Fixed Term until 31/03/2028