Post-doctoral Fellow

Applications are invited for a joint Post-doctoral Researcher in the Faculty of Social Sciences (FOSS) at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and Institute for Social Research (ISR) at University of Michigan (U of Michigan) (Ref: 534801), to commence as soon as possible, on a temporary term of one year, with the potential for a second year in ISR at U of Michigan.

The Faculty of Social Sciences and Institute for Social Research are collaborating to foster cutting-edge areas in social sciences research. This joint post-doctoral researcher aims to support the next generation of leading social sciences researchers, by enabling them to develop a range of research skills in different contexts, working with mentors with different disciplinary and substantive expertise in the social sciences.  

The successful candidate will have the chance to work with leading researchers (mentors) in both FOSS and ISR to develop his/her research ideas and skills for a future career in academia or another research setting. He/She will work at HKU in the first year and is expected to spend the second year at U Michigan. He/She will be required to complete the necessary administration procedures (including recruitment, visa application) for taking up an appointment at U of Michigan, pursuant to relevant terms of employment.

• →Produce high quality research on the research priorities and clusters of both FOSS (HKU) and ISR (Michigan)
• →Support FOSS and ISR colleagues in research dissemination events
• →Assist FOSS and ISR colleagues in the preparation of research reports
• →Perform other research related duties for FoSS and ISR

• a Ph.D. degree in social sciences discipline from a recognized university, awarded within the past three calendar years, or expected to obtain a Ph.D. degree by the start of the fellowship (no later than December 1, 2026). Documentary proof of qualification may be required
• an outstanding record of research performance, with a research area that aligns with the focus of FOSS (HKU) and ISR (Michigan)
• good interpersonal, communication, organizational and problem-solving skills
• the ability to work under tight schedule to meet project deadlines
• the capability to work both independently and as part of a team
• experience with advanced social sciences research methods
• Applicants should indicate which mentors from FOSS (HKU) and ISR (Michigan) they could work with. There is no need to get their interest and support in mentoring before making application

The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload the following documents at the University’s Careers site (https://jobs.hku.hk).

1. A thesis abstract (up to 1 A4 page);
2. A brief cover letter addressing the job requirements (up to 2 A4 pages);
3. A key research output (if available);
4. A research proposal (up to 2 A4 pages);
5. A brief Curriculum Vitae (up to 2 A4 pages);
6. Letters of support from the mentors (one from each of FOSS and ISR); and
7. Names and contact details of three references, including one from their Ph.D. supervisor/advisor.

Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until April 30, 2026 or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.

The University is an equal opportunities employer and

is committed to equality, ethics, inclusivity, diversity and transparency

Applications Open: Apr 2 2026 China Standard Time
Applications Close: Apr 30 2026 11:55 PM China Standard Time

Back to search results Apply now