Rights Lab Research Associate/Fellow in Anti-Trafficking and Religion (Fixed-Term) (SOC

The Rights Lab at the University of Nottingham is seeking a team member to join a large project that is analysing the role of religion and faith in anti-trafficking and anti-slavery work globally today. By researching theological approaches, worldviews and motivations, we aim to achieve a fuller understanding of belief systems in anti-trafficking/anti-slavery work and how these shape anti-trafficking/anti-slavery strategies and approaches, including in the area of legislation and policy. The project is opening new pathways to understanding the anti-trafficking landscape of belief, mapping the basis for anti-trafficking actions, and analysing how religion informs action against human trafficking and modern slavery.

The team includes other postdoctoral research fellows and is conducting surveys, interviews and focus groups, analysing a wide range of documents, examining religious texts and analysing legislation. 

The role-holder will have the opportunity to use their initiative and creativity to identify areas for research, develop research methods and extend their research portfolio. This work is international in scope and covers a wide range of different substantive issues and contexts.

About the role:

The role-holder will conduct primary and secondary research and contribute to the development of new approaches, methodologies, and techniques appropriate to the research. The role-holder will have the opportunity to use their initiative and creativity to identify areas for research, develop research methods and extend their research portfolio.

About the team:

This role is based in the University of Nottingham’s Rights Lab, the world’s largest, leading group of modern slavery researchers. Our challenge-led, team-based approach to research fosters interdisciplinary collaboration. We are committed to ensuring our work is relevant, timely, responsive, accessible, and actionable. The team for this specific project combines colleagues with qualitative and quantitative expertise, from disciplines that include politics, sociology, law, and area studies. 

About you:

Candidates should have a PhD in a relevant field or close to completion.  

Strong qualitative research and analysis skills.Skills in philosophical and/or theological inquiry.Ability to foster a collaborative, team-based research culture.Experience with analysing legislation and/or policy.

What we offer:

A friendly, diverse, supportive working environment;A vibrant on-campus research environment, supported by expectations that our team is based within the Rights Lab and dedicated Leverhulme Centre space in Highfield House on University Park for at least 60% of the working week  and university expectations of residence within an hour’s travel time;Generous holiday entitlement of 30 days annually (pro rata), standard bank holidays, five university closure days, including closure between Christmas and New Year;University reward scheme that grants bonuses of numerous values for excellent work;Commitment to staff development through the provision of training, continued support, career progression opportunities;Access to a range of benefits and rewards, including fitness and health facilities, staff discounts, travel schemes and many more. To find out more about what we offer, please check our benefits website.

What next: 

This role is 36.25 hpw and is available from January 2026 to April 2027 as a fixed term contract.    

Further information is available in the role profile. To apply for this vacancy click ‘Apply Now’ complete your details and upload a copy of your CV and publication list.

Please contact Professor Zoe Trodd ([email protected]) for informal inquiries. Please note applications sent directly to this email will not be accepted. 

Closing Date: 05 Jan 2026 Category: Research and Teaching (R&T)