PRR Project

Summary

The GOVCOPP Chair in Place-Based Policy and Governance is a Principal Researcher position in the Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policy (GOVCOPP) of the University of Aveiro.GOVCOPP is a multidisciplinary unit, that brings together researchers from a broad set of disciplines. Yet it has a clear analytical core, which is the Unit’s focus on place-based policy and governance. There is a growing understanding that different places have unique needs, challenges, and opportunities; and that failure to address these contributes to a range of adverse consequences, not least fostering support for populist challengers. In this regard, the research that GOVCOPP carries out stands at the frontier of a topic that the academic community is increasingly appreciating as relevant, and with significant real-world implications.This recruitment aligns with GOVCOPP´s multidisciplinary ethos. The prospective researcher´s role will encompass leading in the design and implementation of research projects focused on place-based policy and governance, with the support and collaboration of other Unit researchers; and developing frameworks for policy recommendations tailored to the unique socio-economic conditions of diverse places. Additionally, the researcher will participate actively in the dissemination of findings through scholarly publications, policy briefs, and presentations at international conferences, thus enhancing GOVCOPP´s visibility and impact on global discussions surrounding place-based governance.The ideal candidate should demonstrate a strong track record of research in the study of place-based policy and governance, evidenced by a strong publication record and experience in leading high-level research projects. Skills in relevant research methodologies, along with the ability to engage with stakeholders from various sectors, are essential. Furthermore, the candidate should exhibit a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in place-based governance and show commitment to developing multidisciplinary and innovative solutions to address them. Coherent with the multidisciplinary nature of GOVCOPP, the position will be open to candidates possessing a PhD in a set of disciplines that link with place-based policy and governance, namely political sciences, social sciences, regional and urban planning, economics, management, industrial engineering and tourism.The rationale for this position stems from GOVCOPP´s strategic objectives and its trajectory. Hiring a senior-level researcher, namely a Principal Researcher, dedicated to place-based policy and governance will enable GOVCOPP to expand its research, foster multidisciplinary collaboration, and address critical societal challenges. This move is also in line with the unit´s growth and the need to diversify its human resources profile beyond those primarily from teaching careers. By doing so, GOVCOPP aims to enhance its capacity for high-quality research and reinforce its standing as leading international reference in the field of place-based policy and governance, committed to advancing scientific knowledge. Moreover, this addition will not only enrich GOVCOPP´s research capabilities but also ensure its continued contribution to societal well-being and policy innovation at local, national and international levels.