University of Stirling | Policy Innovation Partnership The University of Stirling invites applications for five Postdoctoral Research Fellows and one Research Partnership Manager to join the FORTH2O Policy Innovation Partnership. These positions will play a pivotal role in delivering the final phase of this major interdisciplinary project, due for completion at the end of 2026. Appointments are expected to commence as early as possible in 2026 for one-year fixed-term posts. Applicants are encouraged to read the official job advertisements, the background post “A Renewed Vision for FORTH2O”, and this summary to prepare strong and confident applications within the short recruitment timeframe. About the FORTH2O Project FORTH2O is an ambitious, interdisciplinary initiative that brings together researchers, policymakers, and communities to address complex water-related challenges in Scotland’s Forth region. The project focuses on integrating policy innovation, environmental sustainability, and community engagement, exploring how water shapes health, wellbeing, economic value, and cultural identity. Now entering its third and final year, FORTH2O seeks to consolidate its achievements, ensure delivery of commissioned work, and strengthen partnerships across academia, government, and the public sector. Research Partnership Manager Application Deadline: 18 November 2025Interviews: 10 December 2025 Role Overview The Research Partnership Manager will provide leadership in managing and coordinating activities across the FORTH2O Partnership. This role involves strategic oversight, project management, and fostering effective collaboration among partners within the University of Stirling, across Scotland, and internationally. Key Responsibilities Oversee the delivery and completion of ongoing project activities. Manage processes supporting the commissioning of new “innovation challenges,” based on established models. Liaise with Professional Services colleagues to initiate and manage contracts for commissioned work. Support governance and reporting, connecting project delivery to oversight bodies such as the Partnership Executive Group. Monitor project progress and financial resources to ensure delivery at all key stages. Candidate Profile Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects. Attention to detail and experience managing strategy, finance, and delivery timelines. Experience working in a university or research environment preferred. Excellent communication and relationship-building skills across diverse teams and organizations. The recruitment panel will include senior representatives from Professional Services and academic staff. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to manage complex partnerships effectively and ensure operational excellence. Postdoctoral Research Fellows (Five Positions) Interview Date: 12 December 2025 (Online via Microsoft Teams) Role Overview The five Research Fellows will join the FORTH2O team during its critical delivery phase. Each Fellow will contribute to one of five work packages, while also collaborating across interdisciplinary themes. The work will involve research, stakeholder engagement, and co-production of outputs for academic, policy, and public audiences. Work Package Themes Policy and Governance: Understanding policymaking bottlenecks and identifying opportunities for policy change related to water management. Valuation and Decision-Making: Developing multidimensional frameworks to assess the social, environmental, and economic value of water. Innovation and Industry Engagement: Exploring best practices in water-related innovation, including community energy and business models. Place-Based Approaches: Investigating the health and wellbeing value of water-rich environments (“blue spaces”) and fostering community engagement. Storytelling and Heritage: Capturing underrepresented cultural and environmental narratives to inform inclusive, forward-looking water policies. Qualifications and Experience A completed PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline, such as public policy, economics, management, social innovation, public health, communication, or heritage studies. Demonstrated ability to conduct and communicate high-quality, impactful research. Experience engaging with policy, practice, or public audiences. Strong interdisciplinary awareness and collaborative approach. Additional Guidance Candidates should indicate how their disciplinary expertise aligns with one or more of the five work packages. Applications may also highlight interdisciplinary experience, demonstrating flexibility to contribute across packages. Successful candidates will be expected to “hit the ground running”, joining mature work streams with established partnerships and research designs. Application and Interview Guidance (Research Fellows) Application Stage Submit a concise cover letter (ideally one page) and CV. Clearly address the essential criteria listed in the official job description. Emphasize how your skills and experience align with the project’s aims and delivery needs. Interview Stage Interviews will last approximately 40 minutes, including a 5–10 minute presentation followed by structured questions. The panel, chaired by Professor Emma Macleod, will include interdisciplinary representation from across the University. Candidates should be prepared to discuss: The FORTH2O project and their potential contribution. Research skills, methods, and impact experience. Their motivation for joining the University of Stirling. Tips: Keep presentations concise and clear, tailored for a multidisciplinary audience. Expect questions related to research delivery, stakeholder engagement, and collaborative working. The panel aims to provide a supportive, fair interview environment. Career Development and Support Although the posts are fixed-term (one year), the University of Stirling is committed to supporting professional growth. Successful candidates will be encouraged to: Co-author publications and policy outputs. Build professional networks across research and practice communities. Develop funding proposals or career pathways for post-project continuity. Further Information For background on the project and its vision, visit:A Renewed Vision for FORTH2O For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.