Postdoctoral Research Associate @University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position within its Department of Sociology to support an ambitious research project exploring the socio-economic drivers of youth hacking and cybercrime.

Based in Oxford, United Kingdom, the role offers researchers an opportunity to contribute to a three-year interdisciplinary study examining why some young people become involved in hacking and the factors that increase the risk of cybercrime involvement. Applications close on 1 September 2026.

About the Research Project

The successful candidate will join the project titled “Falling into Cybercrime: The Socio-Economic Factors of Youth Hacking and Cybercrime.”

The research is led by Associate Professor Jonathan Lusthaus, alongside Dr Lindsay Richards, and is supported by The Hacking Games.

The three-year study seeks to understand the social, economic, and environmental factors influencing youth participation in hacking and cybercrime.

The project examines these issues at two levels:

• A global analysis exploring why certain countries produce larger numbers of hackers and the factors associated with cybercrime involvement.
• A UK-focused case study investigating why British young people become hackers and why some transition into criminal hacking activities.

The research combines sociological, criminological, and quantitative approaches to generate evidence that can inform policy and prevention strategies.

About the Role

Working alongside the Principal Investigator, Co-Investigator, and a doctoral researcher, the Postdoctoral Research Associate will play a central role in coordinating and delivering the research programme.

The successful applicant will contribute to data collection, analysis, and project coordination while supporting the production of high-quality academic research.

Key Responsibilities

The appointed researcher will be expected to:

• Conduct quantitative and mixed-methods research
• Support survey design and implementation
• Access and analyse secondary datasets
• Create and curate new research datasets
• Assist with project coordination and research management
• Engage with members of the hacking community where appropriate
• Conduct research involving young people when required
• Collaborate with government, industry, and academic stakeholders
• Support dissemination of research findings

Although qualitative research experience is considered beneficial, the position places a stronger emphasis on quantitative research methods.

Candidate Profile

The Department of Sociology is seeking applicants with research expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Cybercrime
• Criminology
• Sociology
• Education
• Related social science disciplines

Researchers with previous experience in life course criminology are particularly encouraged to apply.

Essential Skills

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Strong mixed-methods research experience
• Experience collecting quantitative research data
• Survey design and deployment skills
• Experience working with secondary datasets
• Ability to build and manage research datasets
• Intermediate statistical analysis skills, including regression analysis
• Confidence engaging with diverse stakeholders
• Excellent research and analytical abilities

The successful candidate should also be comfortable communicating with professionals from academia, government, and industry.

Contract Details

The position is expected to begin as soon as possible, preferably by October 2026, although some flexibility is available for candidates requiring a later start date.

The University is seeking a full-time researcher but will also consider applications from candidates requesting part-time working arrangements.

Salary

The appointment is offered at Research Grade 7.

Salary range:

• £39,424–£47,779 per year
• A discretionary salary range of up to £53,483 (pro rata where applicable)

Interview Schedule

Interviews are expected to take place during the week commencing 21 September 2026.

Application Deadline

Closing date: 1 September 2026 at 12:00 (UK time)

Why Apply?

This position offers researchers the opportunity to:

• Join one of the world’s leading universities
• Contribute to pioneering cybercrime research
• Work alongside internationally recognised experts
• Develop expertise in quantitative and mixed-methods research
• Produce research with direct policy relevance
• Engage with academic, government, and industry stakeholders

Conclusion

The University of Oxford’s Postdoctoral Research Associate position provides an outstanding opportunity for researchers interested in cybercrime, sociology, criminology, and youth studies. By contributing to a major international research project examining the pathways into hacking and cybercrime, the successful candidate will help generate evidence that informs both academic understanding and public policy while advancing their own research career.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.