PRR Project

Summary

The NOVA School of Social Sciences and Humanities, through RU Institute for Medieval Studies (IEM) is actively looking to enhance its academic staff by recruiting an Assistant Research in Medieval Studies, specifically in Mobility, Representations, and Identity. This position is intended for a medievalist researcher working on a combination of the following themes: mobility, representations, and identity. Mobility is understood as the movement and circulation across the medieval space, namely of people, ideas, and/or cultural goods, as can be found in activities such as diplomacy and international relations, religious travel, warfare, or education. In the context of mobility, the development of ‘identity’ as a mean to characterise the evolving social and political roles of individuals and communities should be prioritised. This may entail issues of gender, social asymetry, and adaptation as a result of circulation. Particular attention is to be given to the representation of individuals, groups or institutions in social context. This may translate in the production of material objects, narratives of power (visual or written), and performativity in the political space. Career paths built on interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary methodologies will be favored. The international dimension of the research will also be considered.Key responsibilities: 1. Develop scientific independent research related to the area of specialization, thus actively contributing to the renewal and ongoing improvement of the scientific knowledge. Generate and disseminate high-quality research findings, including (but not exclusively) in international, peer-reviewed journals, monographs, books, and catalogues of exhibitions, catalogues; Attend workshops and conferences, participate in organising committees and deliver talks by invitation. 2. Contribute to a thriving research environment by aiding in the development and execution of the strategic project of the IEM and NOVA FCSH’s strategic research agendas in Values, Governance and Citizenship, Memory and Heritage, Arts and Humanities. 3. Create and submit applications for competitive research funding with significant impact on the field. 4. Promote the dissemination of research data (Open Science) through the means provided by the IEM. 5. Consolidate skills in collaborative work with academic and non-academic institutions, setting the ground for future partnerships and social engagement, and networks within and outside the research community. 6. Supervise students by providing mentoring and advice. 7. Actively develop efforts to establish meaningful collaborative work with academic and non-academic institutions, setting the ground for future partnerships and social engagement and strengthening established partnerships.Requirements: 1. PhD degree in History, Literary Studies, Archaeology or Art History. 2. Specific expertise on the analysis of medieval mobility, representations and identity. 3. Previous experience in the design of research projects, including call for projects with competitive funding/other funding. 4. Relevant experience working in research projects with interdisciplinary/multidisciplinary teams (as team member, team coordination and/or managerial responsibilities). 5. Outstanding research qualities demonstrated through an established track record of relevant publications, including peer-reviewed, international journals, books, and other relevant outputs. 6. Previous experience in dissemination activities aimed at non-academic publics (e.g. exhibitions, publications, open talks). 7. Active member of relevant networks (academic and non-academic) in the research topics covered. 8. Strong focus on societal engagement and knowledge exchange with relevant stakeholders (such as Municipalities, Museums, Monuments) and society in general.Rationale: In the context of IEM, the relevance of this position translates, in scientific terms, into the consolidation of an area of medieval studies – transversal and multidisciplinary – which is a hallmark of the Institute and of NOVA FCSH’s own historiographical research since its foundation. Additionally, most impact activities aimed at the general public have been, and will continue to be, deeply rooted in this area of research, whether with multiple local communities with whom IEM maintains partnerships, or with other entities, such as archives, municipalities, non-governmental bodies including local associations and  citizen groups. This position considers NOVA FCSH strategic lines, specifically Memory and Heritage. The focus on the impact that cultural events – such as exhibitions and open conferences – have on disseminating research results to the broad public, is particularly relevant in this context.