Postdoctoral Researcher
Resilient Media for Democracy in the Digital Age (ReMeD)
Institute for Media, Democracy and Society (FuJo)
Eleven-month Fixed Term Contract
Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the following position:
Research Centre |
Institute for Media, Democracy and Society (FuJo) |
Post title |
Postdoctoral Researcher Media and journalism |
Post duration |
Eleven months |
Dublin City University
Dublin City University (DCU) is a young, ambitious and vibrant university, with a mission ‘to transform lives and societies through education, research, innovation and engagement’. Known as Ireland’s ‘University of Enterprise’, DCU is a values-based institution, committed to the delivery of impact for the public good. DCU was named Sunday Times Irish University of the Year 2021.
DCU is based on three academic campuses in the Glasnevin-Drumcondra region of north Dublin. More than 18,000 students are enrolled across five faculties – Humanities and Social Sciences, Science and Health, DCU Business School, Computing and Engineering, and DCU Institute of Education.
DCU is committed to excellence across all its activities. This is demonstrated by its world-class research initiatives, its cutting-edge approach to teaching and learning, its focus on delivering a transformative student experience, and its positive social and economic impact. The university continues to develop innovative programmes in collaboration with industry, such as the DCU Futures suite of degrees, which are designed to equip graduates with the skills and knowledge required in a rapidly evolving economy.
DCU’s pursuit of excellence has led to its current ranking among the top two percent of universities globally. It is also one of the world’s Top Young Universities (QS Top 100 Under 50, Times Higher Top 150 Under 100). In the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings 2021, DCU ranked 23rd in the world for its approach to widening participation in higher education and its ongoing commitment to eradicating poverty, while it ranks 38th globally for its work in reducing inequality and 89th globally for gender equality.
The university is ranked first in Ireland and 23rd in the world for its graduate employment rate, according to the 2020 QS Graduate Employability Rankings. Over the past decade, DCU has been the leading Irish university in the area of technology transfer, as reflected by licensing of intellectual property.
Overview
The DCU Institute for Media, Democracy and Society (FuJo) is a multidisciplinary research centre focused on the digital transformation of media, democracy, and society. FuJo investigates how to counter digital threats; enhance public participation through democratic innovations; and secure the sustainability of high-quality journalism and media. Resilient Media for Democracy in the Digital Age (ReMeD) is an EU-funded international research project, the FuJo-led element of which is ‘Reconnecting Citizens to Democratic Media’.
Background and Role
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work in collaboration with ReMeD partners, to undertake both quantitative and qualitative research into news consumption, including via social media, with particular focus on misinformation, extremism, and polarising media content. It is envisaged that this research will inform further work involving citizens, with a view to co-creating media literacy tools.
The ideal candidate will have a PhD in communications or a related field; experience in researching news consumption and/or media literacy at national and EU level; and experience of collaborating with multidisciplinary and non-academic stakeholders in European projects.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
Reporting to ReMeD’s Irish principal investigator and work package manager, the researcher will:
- Conduct research as outlined above
- Collaborate with project partners and associate partners in research and in the creation of a media literacy toolkit
- Disseminate outcomes of the project’s research, via peer-reviewed academic publication and associated activities, and through accessible public resources
- Contribute to administrative work on the project
Minimum Criteria
Applicants should have: a PhD in a relevant discipline; research experience in news consumption, including via social media; knowledge of relevant academic literature; and experience of collaborating in research projects.
Skills
- High-level conceptualisation and critical thinking
- Excellent written and oral proficiency in English (essential)
- Proven ability to prioritise workload and work to demanding deadlines
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Ability to work in a team and to take responsibility to contribute to its overall success
Salary Scale:
IUA Postdoctoral Researcher Salary Scale - €42,783 - €54,965
Appointment will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and in line with current Government pay policy.
Closing date: January 22, 2024
For more information on DCU and benefits, please visit Why work at DCU?
Application Procedure:
Apply via email with statement of interest and your CV to Dr John O’Sullivan, School of Communications, Dublin City University
Email: john.osullivan@dcu.ie
Dublin City University is an equal opportunities employer. In line with the Employment Equality Acts 1998 – 2015, the University is committed to equality of treatment for all those who engage with its recruitment, selection and appointment processes. The University’s Athena SWAN Bronze Award signifies the University’s commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing any gender pay gaps. Information on a range of university policies aimed at creating a supportive and flexible work environment are available in the DCU Policy Starter Packs.