The role

Applications are invited for a position of Postdoctoral Research Associate with expertise in quantitative anthropology and an emphasis on the transmission of social norms and social network analyses. The post is a PDRA position in a British Academy GCRF (Global Challenges Research Fund) project entitled “The Social Dynamics of FGM/C (Female Genital Mutilation)/Cutting)” led by Prof Mhairi Gibson in the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology at the University of Bristol and is in collaboration with researchers at the University of Addis Ababa (Prof Eshetu Gurmu) in Ethiopia and the University of Montpellier (Professor Alex Alvergne) in France. We require an individual with expertise in quantitative anthropology, and the analyses of social network data. The objective for this role is to explore the social transmission of attitudes in support of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) within and across at-risk communities, analysing data obtained from a recent survey 5000 people living in 3 neighbouring communities in South Central Ethiopia.  

What will you be doing?

The successful candidate will primarily be responsible for the analyses and writing-up to two investigations, as well as coordinating meetings with project advisory board members in UK and in Ethiopia. The post is offered on a full-time fixed term basis for 18 months.  

You should apply if

You will have a PhD in anthropology, biology or social statistics, or some similar field. It is essential that you have skills in a range of quantitative methods and analyses, particularly social network analyses, and relevant statistical packages. Broad experience with social network analyses (preferably using R) would be highly desirable. Preference will be given to those candidates that have a background in anthropology, who have previously worked on topics relating to the transmission of social norms. You will require excellent organisational, communication and presentation skills. You should demonstrate that you can engage in interdisciplinary collaborative work. Your role will work closely alongside the PIs in the UK, France and Ethiopia, but also with advisory board members based in NGOs, government, and multilateral agencies. Preference will be given to candidates with experience working in internationally. This role may require periodic overseas travel to engage with collaborating partners.