Postdoctoral Associate, Western Academy for Advanced Research

Posting Expiry

 

The Western Academy for Advanced Research (WAFAR) is seeking applications for two (2) postdoctoral associates to work with the upcoming WAFAR theme on “The Possibilities for Peace in the Twenty-First Century.” WAFAR, based at the University of Western Ontario, brings together interdisciplinary and international teams of scholars to address major issues facing humanity through periods of dedicated focus. It is expected that the postdoctoral associate will work with WAFAR for the duration of the “Possibilities for Peace” theme, spanning from January 2025 until December 2025. However, the precise start and end dates are flexible.

Postdoctoral associates will work with the Western Fellows overseeing the team (Professors Bipasha Baruah, Ryan Liss, and Valerie Oosterveld) and a team of global Visiting Western Fellows (including diplomats and representatives of international organizations). Given the interdisciplinary nature of the project, candidates from all fields of study are encouraged to apply if their expertise relates to the study of interstate peace, broadly construed. Fields of study that may be relevant include, but are not limited to, law, international relations, political science, history, geography, information and media studies, gender studies, economics, arts & humanities, peace studies, diplomacy studies, public affairs, and philosophy. Applicants must have completed a doctoral degree in their relevant field of studies by the start of the position in January 2025 and they should have a proven record of research excellence.

Postdoctoral associates are expected to work from WAFAR’s offices on Western’s campus, in London, Ontario. The associates will be active members of the WAFAR team, working to produce research on the theme both individually and in collaboration with other members of the team, and helping to coordinate the theme’s work, including organizing workshops, conferences, and other related events.

Western ranks as one of Canada’s top research-intensive universities. From fundamental to applied discovery and other scholarly activities, its scholars advance knowledge that provides tangible benefits for the economic, social, health, and cultural development of the citizens in London, in Canada, and around the world. Western Research supports scholars through collaboration, communication, and service. Western University and its affiliate colleges received more than $267 million in research funding over the past year.

Postdoctoral associates will receive $52,631.58 CDN (plus benefits) for the full year of employment. They will also receive office space at WAFAR’s offices for the duration of the position.

 

To apply, applicants should submit:

  1. a cover letter of no longer than two pages outlining their reasons for interest in, and their qualification for, the position;
  2. a curriculum vitae (including a list of all degrees completed and in progress, and list of all publications);
  3. transcripts from the degrees they have completed, or which are in progress;
  4. one writing sample (published or unpublished) reflective of their work;
  5. two reference letters in support of their application (which must be submitted directly by the referee, rather than the candidate).

The application materials (apart from the reference letters) should be combined in one or two PDF documents and submitted via email to Peace.WAFAR@uwo.ca. Reference letters should be submitted directly by the referee via email to Peace.WAFAR@uwo.ca.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to ensure their application and reference letters are submitted by May 31, 2024; however, applications submitted after that date may be considered. For questions or additional information, interested applicants can contact Professors Bipasha Baruah (bbaruah@uwo.ca), Ryan Liss (rliss@uwo.ca), or Valerie Oosterveld (vooster@uwo.ca).

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview. Further details concerning the interview process will be provided to those candidates selected for an interview.

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.