The University of Oxford is inviting applications for two Postdoctoral Research Fellow (PRF) positions within its Department of Sociology. The prestigious fellowships offer early-career researchers the opportunity to pursue independent research at one of the world’s leading universities while contributing to Oxford’s vibrant academic community.
The successful candidates will be appointed for up to four years, with fellowships running until 30 September 2030. One position is intended for a researcher with a primarily quantitative research focus, while the second is designed for a researcher specialising in qualitative research.
Applications close on 18 August 2026 at 12:00 (UK time).
About the Fellowship
The Department of Sociology at the University of Oxford is seeking outstanding postdoctoral researchers whose work aligns with the broad research interests of its academic faculty. Fellows will have the freedom to develop and pursue their own independent research agendas while benefiting from mentorship, access to world-class resources, and collaboration with leading scholars.
The fellowships are designed to support promising researchers as they establish themselves as independent academics through high-quality research, grant applications, limited teaching responsibilities, and active participation in departmental life.
Each fellow will be assigned an academic mentor who will provide professional guidance and support throughout the fellowship period.
Fellowship Duration
The appointments will begin in September 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Successful candidates will receive appointments lasting:
- Up to four years.
- Fellowship end date of 30 September 2030.
This extended fellowship provides researchers with significant time to build an internationally recognised research profile while pursuing ambitious academic projects.
Available Positions
The Department is recruiting for two distinct research profiles:
- One Postdoctoral Research Fellow specialising primarily in quantitative research methods.
- One Postdoctoral Research Fellow specialising primarily in qualitative research methods.
Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their current or proposed research aligns with the expertise and interests of the Department’s academic staff.
Key Responsibilities
The appointed fellows will undertake a range of academic responsibilities, including:
- Conducting independent scholarly research.
- Developing an original research programme under their own direction.
- Applying for internal and external research funding.
- Publishing high-quality academic research.
- Participating actively in the intellectual life of the Department.
- Delivering a limited amount of teaching.
- Organising and contributing to seminars, workshops, and research events.
- Collaborating with colleagues across the University of Oxford.
- Engaging with the wider Oxford academic community.
The Department places a strong emphasis on fostering an active research culture, and fellows will be encouraged to contribute to collaborative academic activities throughout their appointment.
Research Environment
The University of Oxford’s Department of Sociology is internationally recognised for excellence in research across a broad range of sociological disciplines.
The successful fellows will benefit from:
- Access to internationally renowned academics.
- An intellectually stimulating research environment.
- Academic mentoring from experienced faculty members.
- Opportunities to collaborate across departments and research centres.
- Participation in seminars, conferences, and interdisciplinary initiatives.
- Support for developing competitive research funding applications.
The fellowship allows researchers significant academic independence while providing structured institutional support to help advance their careers.
Who Should Apply?
The Department welcomes applications from outstanding early-career researchers whose work complements the Department’s existing areas of expertise.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
- Strong academic research potential.
- A clear and original research agenda.
- Expertise in either qualitative or quantitative sociological research methods.
- Commitment to producing high-quality scholarly publications.
- Interest in securing competitive research funding.
- Ability to contribute to teaching and departmental activities.
Researchers whose work aligns with one or more members of the Department’s faculty are particularly encouraged to apply.
Salary and Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a competitive academic salary under Research Grade 8.
The salary package includes:
- Annual salary ranging from £49,119 to £58,265.
- A discretionary salary range extending to £65,336 per annum (pro-rata where applicable).
In addition to competitive remuneration, fellows will gain access to the exceptional academic resources, professional development opportunities, and collaborative research environment available at the University of Oxford.
Diversity and Inclusion
The Department of Sociology is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming academic community.
Applications are particularly encouraged from groups currently underrepresented within academic positions at the University of Oxford, including:
- Women.
- People with disabilities.
- Black researchers.
- Asian researchers.
- Researchers from minority ethnic backgrounds.
Appointments will be based solely on merit, qualifications, and the criteria relevant to the fellowship. The University is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity and fair treatment throughout the recruitment process.
Interview Process
Shortlisted candidates are expected to be interviewed during the:
- Week commencing 7 September 2026.
Applicants should ensure they are available during this period if shortlisted.
Application Deadline
Interested candidates should submit their applications before:
- Application Deadline: 18 August 2026 at 12:00 (UK time)
Researchers seeking to establish an independent academic career in sociology will find this fellowship an outstanding opportunity to conduct high-impact research, build international collaborations, and contribute to one of the world’s leading centres for sociological scholarship.
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