PRR Project

Summary

Rationale for the ICS-ULisboa Strategic Planning : The study of social inequalities is a well-established research area in sociology. At ICS-ULisboa, which approaches dynamics of inclusion and exclusion interdisciplinarily. Social exclusion from the prevailing social system, or the unequal access to the material and symbolic resources of society, has been the object of recent theoretical and methodological developments in sociology. These include innovative approaches that emphasise the multiplicity of inequalities and the links between inequalities and vulnerability. Research that interweaves social inequalities (such as class, gender, generation) and vulnerability involves understanding how individuals or groups affected by different forms of inequality are more likely to experience harm, disadvantage, illness or deprivation in different aspects of life. At ICS-ULisboa, TL Inclusion & Vulnerabilities(TLIV) explores innovative angles on inequality and vulnerability, both in fundamental science and policy-oriented interventions. The aim is to produce ground-breaking knowledge about contemporary processes of social exclusion and inclusion. By examining how structural and institutional dimensions of inequality shape people´s life trajectories from birth to old age, TLIV researchers aim to understand the interconnectedness of social structures and individual experiences at different stages of life. This approach requires a multi-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods and techniques. It combines the study of individuals and their practices, social institutions (family, school, work, healthcare, etc.) and organisations (professional groups, trade-unions, hospitals, etc.) with the analysis of structural social change This research reveals the intricate links between societal structures and personal experiences at different stages of life. To achieve this comprehensive understanding, our interdisciplinary approach blends multiple research methodologies. This multifaceted approach not only sheds light on the complexity of social inequalities, but also aims to inform and inspire policy-oriented solutions. Required Scientific Profile : In addition to proven expertise in the topic, the Principal Research Fellow to be recruited should have: a) a PhD. in Sociology; b) a relevant CV in the field of social inequalities and the life course, with a particular focus on internationalisation;  c) strong methodological training, preferably with experience in social network analysis,  creative and/or participatory methodologies; d) proven experience in initiating innovative, cutting-edge research strands and topics; e) proven experience in coordinating international collaborations; f) proven experience in coordinating and teaching post-graduate courses and supervising post-graduate students; g) a track record of highly competitive funding, both internationally and nationally; h) experience in research coordinating teams; and j) preferably experience in outlining and co-developing recommendations to decision-makers in the private and public sectors.??????? Tasks to be assigned : The Principal Research to be recruited will play a fundamental role in ensuring continued innovation in theories and methodologies capable of addressing inequalities and vulnerabilities at different stages of life. Ensuring that the research carried out combines a high level of methodological expertise as well as quantitative, qualitative and creative skills will also be key for the different TLs of ICS-ULisboa, in particular for the development and coordination of research within the TL Inclusion & Vulnerabilities (TLIV) . The profile of ICS-ULisboa as a Portuguese and European centre of excellence in fundamental and policy-oriented research on this important social science topic requires a high level of internationalisation. The Principal Research will play a key role in ensuring the internationalisation of research through publications and project funding (ERC grants, EU funded projects, etc.).The Principal Research will carry out activities in the field of sociology to generate innovative and impactful knowledge about contemporary processes of social inclusion and exclusion and explore the interplay between different forms of inequality - such as class, gender and generational differences - and vulnerability.  These activities include a) designing research projects for national and international calls; b) coordinating research teams and leading the implementation of projects in research and scientific and technological development; c) designing and implementing training activities in scientific research methods and development in this field; d) supervising master’s and PhD students; e) proposing outreach interventions based on results obtained in a research project conducted in this scientific domain; f) engaging in scientific leadership and academic management at ICS-ULisboa.