Join an exciting Leverhulme Trust–funded research project at the University of Southampton exploring how coaching for elite employment shapes the identities, aspirations, and social mobility of young people in India.

Situated within the sociology of education, this innovative project focuses on coaching for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations—one of the most competitive routes into prestigious public sector careers in India. Drawing on a novel conceptual framework of ‘coached habitus’, the research examines how non-formal education influences youth transitions, identity formation, and the education–employment nexus in contexts of inequality.

Adopting a multi-method qualitative design, the study combines ethnographic and visual methods, biographical interviews, and policy analysis. The project aims to generate internationally significant research outputs alongside meaningful policy and public engagement.

About the role

The Research Fellow will play a central role in delivering this ambitious project. You will take a leading role in qualitative fieldwork and data collection in Delhi, including ethnographic observations, interviews, and visual documentation, and contribute across all stages of research, from design to dissemination.

You will work closely with Dr Achala Gupta and will be supported to develop an internationally competitive research profile. The role offers opportunities to co-author publications, lead elements of project outputs, present at major international conferences, and engage with policy stakeholders.

This post is aiming to start in October 2026.

About you 

We are looking for an ambitious early-career researcher with:

Essential attributes include:

• A PhD (completed or near completion) or equivalent professional qualifications and experience in Sociology, Education, Social Policy, or a related discipline
• Expertise in qualitative research methods (e.g. interviews, ethnography)
• Strong interest in sociology of education, youth transitions, and/or social inequalities
• Experience of conducting independent research and data analysis
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Desirable attributes include:

• Experience of research in Indian cities (e.g., Delhi)
• Familiarity with shadow education, coaching, or non-formal education
• Experience with visual or innovative qualitative methods
• An emerging publication profile

What we can offer you

• A leading role in a high-profile Leverhulme-funded project
• Opportunities for high-quality publication and international conference participation
• Mentoring and career development within a supportive research environment
• Engagement with policy and global research communities
• Integration into a vibrant interdisciplinary research culture

The University of Southampton is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can thrive.

We offer a generous benefits package, including a comprehensive pension scheme, flexible working options, and access to excellent health and wellbeing facilities.

Application

With your application, please include the following: a 1-page cover letter addressing how you meet the selection criteria detailed in the Job Description and Person Specification, a 2-page CV including a publication list, and a draft of your academic writing.

Closing Date: 28 May 2026

Section: Education, Research & Enterprise

Salary: £41,064 per annum
Full Time Fixed Term for 36 months

We are seeking to appoint a Teaching Fellow in Education (Leadership) to join Southampton Education School. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a dynamic, research-informed environment with a strong commitment to educational leadership, innovation, and impact.

The postholder will play a central role in the delivery and development of the MSc Education programme, with a particular focus on leadership-related modules. You will contribute high-quality teaching, support student learning and supervision, and help shape the ongoing development of our postgraduate provision.

You will join a collegial and ambitious School committed to advancing education through research-informed teaching, professional engagement, and innovation in pedagogy.

What you’ll do

You will:

• Deliver high-quality teaching across the MSc Education programme, primarily on educational leadership modules, using a range of approaches including lectures, seminars, and tutorials
• Design, assess, and provide feedback on coursework and examinations, supporting student progression and achievement
• Supervise postgraduate students, offering academic guidance and support for their learning and research
• Contribute to the development, review, and enhancement of leadership-focused curricula, ensuring coherence, innovation, and alignment with current research and practice
• Support the School’s teaching objectives through ongoing evaluation and improvement of learning and teaching
• Contribute to pedagogic scholarship, including dissemination of teaching innovation and practice
• Undertake administrative and coordination responsibilities linked to programme delivery (e.g. admissions, assessment processes, quality assurance)

About you

We are looking for a colleague with expertise in educational leadership and a strong commitment to high-quality teaching.

You will have:

• Substantial knowledge and experience in educational leadership, underpinned by relevant theory and research
• Experience of teaching and/or leading educational leadership provision at postgraduate level
• A strong understanding of education across school, FE, or HE contexts
• A relevant postgraduate qualification (Level 7) and a teaching qualification (e.g. PGCE, PGCAP, QTS or equivalent)
• The ability to design and deliver engaging, high-quality teaching and assessment
• Strong communication and collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively across teams

 What we offer

• The opportunity to contribute to a highly regarded MSc Education programme with a strong leadership focus
• A supportive academic environment committed to research-informed teaching and innovation
• Opportunities for professional development and pedagogic scholarship
• Access to a vibrant academic community within a leading Russell Group university

About Southampton Education School

Southampton Education School is recognised for its strong research base, commitment to evidence-informed practice, and innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Our MSc Education programme attracts a diverse cohort of professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of education and leadership in a rapidly changing world.

Working at the University of Southampton:

Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton.

Closing Date: 27 May 2026

Section: Education, Research & Enterprise

Salary: £36,636 to £41,064 Pro rata per annum
Part Time Fixed Term - 26.25 hours a week for 16 months