PRR Project

Summary

Rationale for the ICS-ULisboa Strategic Planning : The research landscape in Sustainable Futures is increasingly focused on the multiple challenges posed by global crises, emphasising the need for resilience in the face of environmental, economic, demographic and social upheaval. Researchers are looking at population dynamics, examining how rapid ageing, migration patterns and urbanisation affect demographic sustainability and influence policy-making. Living conditions, housing and welfare are also critical areas of investigation, with a growing body of work exploring the intersectionality of socio-economic status and access to resources, and how these factors contribute to the well-being of communities. In addition, Sustainable Futures is at the forefront of examining work-life balance, particularly in the context of changing family structures and gender roles. Research increasingly focuses on understanding how workplace policies, family support systems and societal norms can be reconciled to promote gender equality and meet the diverse needs of families. It also addresses the wider implications for social welfare systems and the sustainability of current and future generations. This comprehensive approach to the study of sustainable futures is essential for the development of informed policies that can adapt to and mitigate the complexities of Anthropogenic global climate change and ensure equitable and sustainable development.In the vast field of Sustainable Futures, interdisciplinary collaboration is paramount. Researchers are increasingly engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, from academics to policymakers and community groups. This requires a skill set that transcends traditional academic boundaries, encompassing stakeholder engagement, participatory methods and the skilful translation of complex research findings to diverse audiences.Researchers are at the forefront of policy development, analysing and addressing the political, social, technological and economic barriers affecting population trends and welfare. Given the urgent need to integrate scientific evidence into public policy, the addition of a PhD Researcher to the ICS-ULisboa will significantly enhance the Institute´s capacity to influence demographic and welfare sustainability. This role is essential to strengthen ICS-ULisboa´s reputation as a leader in Portuguese and European applied social science research, particularly in the critical area of sustainable futures. Required Scientific Profile : In addition to a demonstrated interest in the topic, the PhD Researcher to be recruited should have: a) a PhD in Sociology, Demography, Social Work and related areas; b) a relevant CV in the field of Sustainable Futures, with particular emphasis on the effects of global population and welfare crisis and a proven international track record (e.g. international collaborations, a repertoire of publications in top quality journals and or book publications, participation in research networks, experience in project-based research and outreach activities); c) solid methodological training in multi-methods research designs and participatory methodologies, involving contributions from multiple stakeholders; d) proven experience in initiating innovative, cutting-edge, research strands and topics; e) proven experience in coordinating and teaching post-graduate courses; f) a track record in attracting funding from non-academic partners, and contributing to or capturing highly competitive funding, both at international and national levels; (vii) experience in coordinating teams; g) preferable experience in stakeholder engagement and research-to-policy transfer to decision-makers in both private and public sectors. Tasks to be assigned : The Assistant Researcher to be recruited will carry out activities in the field of Sustainable Futures/Population and Welfare dynamics. 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) conducting 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) stakeholder engagement and research-to-policy transfer; g) contributing to academic management at the ICS-ULisboa.This Researcher will develop activities contributing to several Thematic Lines, but especially the Sustainability TL .