Postdoctoral Research Associate – Sustainability Governance of Forest‑Risk Commodities

About the role

The University of Bath is seeking a full‑time Postdoctoral Research Associate to join Dr. Yixian Sun’s project on sustainability governance of forest‑risk commodities. The role focuses on China’s governance of natural rubber, palm oil and mining sectors and involves close collaboration with international partners.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct mixed‑methods research on initiatives governing the sustainability impacts of China’s commodity trade and investment.
• Analyse interrelationships between governance initiatives and political‑economy dynamics in China.
• Develop future policy scenarios based on stakeholder views.
• Engage with partners at Universitas Gadjah Mada, University of Victoria, UBC, University of Freiburg, UIBE and NUS.
• Support stakeholder engagement activities and produce high‑impact research outputs.

Required profile

• PhD in International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, Environmental Studies, Public Policy or a related social‑science field.
• Strong research interest in environmental politics, governance and China’s role in global sustainability.
• Experience conducting research in China or collaborating with Chinese institutions.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and project‑management abilities.
• Self‑motivated with strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Full‑time (36.5 hours/week) fixed‑term contract until March 2027, with possible renewal.
• Minimum of 10 days of professional‑development leave per year.
• Opportunity to work within a diverse, international research team.
• Access to Bath Centre for Earth System Research Governance resources.