Call for Methods School Academic Convenors

• Do you have a solid record in internationally recognised research in the field of qualitative or quantitative political research methods?
• Are you experienced in the teaching, training and supervision of graduate students?
• Would you like to make your mark on a thriving and continually developing event?

We have a fantastic opportunity for you! We are seeking to appoint two Academic Convenors with a mission to coordinate all academic matters of our Methods School – an internationally renowned provider of courses on applied research methods in political science and neighbouring disciplines. 

In a nutshell

• Title Academic Convenor (x2)
• Remuneration €10,000 per annum
• Term Three years, renewable once at the end of the term

About the roles

You will be responsible for the academic content of the ECPR's Methods School programme. This includes ensuring that the School continues to thrive and grow and that courses and delivery remain current and at the cutting edge of methodological and substantive developments in the discipline.

You will quality-assure training and educational practices across the entire range of courses and training opportunities. You will ensure that teaching follows best practices in the discipline, considering the regulatory framework that the ECPR operates under as a charitable organisation, and adhering to the ECPR’s Code of Conduct. A particular focus will be on the introduction of innovative, effective and efficient ways of combining in-person and online instruction.

A further area of responsibility will be to help develop strategies for growth and sustainability of the Methods School utilising the skills and experience of the wider ECPR membership, especially the Standing Group on Political Methodology. Collaborative working within ECPR and across all parts of its organisation will be required to ensure the alignment of work at all levels.

You will liaise with ECPR’s internal and external stakeholders as well as participate in the monitoring, evaluation and development of the Methods School.

The roles will be accountable to the Training Sub-Committee, liaising closely with the Events Team, and the Events Manager who holds budgetary responsibility.

Core responsibilities

• Work closely with the Training Sub-Committee to drive the direction of the Methods School in a creative and innovative manner
• Design academic content for the Methods School programme
• Conceptualise, review and develop the Method School’s academic course programme
• Use your contacts in the wider political science community to proactively identify potentially suitable instructors to deliver the academic programme, liaising with ECPR staff for selection and recruitment
• Ensure a positive, proactive and supportive response to opportunities for improvement and growth of the Methods School
• Deliver the Methods School, with the support of Local Organisers, Host Institutions and ECPR staff
• Contribute to the monitoring, evaluation and development of the Methods School, producing an Annual Report to be presented to the Training Sub-Committee
• Evaluate the merit and quality of funding applications from potential participants, and make recommendations to the Awards, Prizes and Funding Sub-Committee
• Maintain and ensure a high level of awareness of ECPR’s relevant rules and procedures, including procedures for academic integrity
• Represent the Methods School at functions and events

About you

The ECPR is seeking a political scientist or a methodologist working in political science with a doctorate and at least five years’ post-doctoral experience in research and teaching in the field of (applied) political research methods, whether quantitative or qualitative.

You will be experienced in the training and supervision of graduate students. You will normally be in a permanent or tenured position at an ECPR member institution, and have a wide range of contacts in Europe and the rest of the world with relevant expertise, skills and knowledge in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods. You will be fully fluent in English and have experience in teaching in English. Previous experience in developing and/or delivering high-quality digital or hybrid courses is desirable.

In line with our Gender Equality Plan, we seek to achieve a more equal gender distribution across all roles in the organisation; the ECPR is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion principles, and particularly encourages applications from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The position offers a fee of €10,000 p.a. and will run for a term of three years, renewable once at the end of the term.

How to apply

Send your application to ECPR Events Manager, Nirusha Vigi, by Thursday 28 October 2021, including your CV and a supporting statement:

• Demonstrating a deep understanding of the ECPR Summer and Winter Schools;
• Highlighting any relevant qualifications and professional experience;
• Showcasing how you intend to contribute to the development of the Methods School;
• Highlighting any experience in successfully developing and/or delivering digital/hybrid programmes or courses.