The Laudato Si’ Research Institute (LSRI), based at Campion Hall, University of Oxford, in collaboration with the Integral Ecology Research Network (IERN) and The Downforce Trust (TDT), is seeking to appoint an Integral Agroecology Research Associate. This is a full-time position with a fixed term of 24 months (renewable after one year).

Inspired by the legacy of Henri de Laulanié SJ, the role will advance integral agroecological understanding and practices, will foster different expressions of eco-spirituality, and will support the HE and business sectors in understanding and applying agroecological techniques, via Jesuit university and other networks. Laulanié’s mission to Madagascar (1961–1995) prioritised practical action designed to promote human and agricultural development together. Laulanié’s last years were concerned with how to scale the System of Rice Intensification (SRI), an agroecological approach to rice cultivation co-developed with Malagasy farmers. A particular focus of the role will be to carry out further research into SRI and to focus on the role of people and organisations in scaling-up this and other agroecological practices. The primary geographical focus will be Africa. The role is envisaged as combining scholarly research (up to 25%) with public and policy engagement activities (at least 75%). As Laulanié himself wrote: “if the Holy Spirit wills it, it will happen, and the only way to know if the Holy Spirit wills it, is to start and try”.

1. Research 

-Conduct and support high-quality scholarly research focused on agricultural extension and the scaling of regenerative and integral agroecological practices in Africa and in other relevant global regions. Particular areas of focus will be the actual or potential role of faith-based organisations, networks and institutions in agricultural extension, and in connecting farmers to markets.

- Publish at least two scholarly research materials in academic outlets and at least four scholarly research materials to be delivered on the LSRI publications website (Research Papers, Briefing Notes, policy briefs, and reports), ensuring that all findings are translated into actionable policies and practices, and are available for wide public engagement.

-Assist in coordinating the IERN to support transdisciplinary and practice-oriented research.

-Contribute to the development of funding proposals for additional or supplementary research initiatives.

2. Public and Policy Engagement

-Engage with policymakers, practitioners, and other stakeholders to translate research findings into actionable policies and practices.

-Develop and deliver presentations, workshops, and seminars to promote project achievements and foster collaboration among stakeholders.

-Participate in selected, high-impact conferences, workshops and meetings where there is a genuine opportunity to accelerate research and impact (without the parameters of travel and carbon footprint policy).

3. Programme Leadership and Collaboration

-Lead or play a leading role in a small number of impactful programmes that can deliver sustainable scaling of agroecology in Africa, with strong focus on extension and practice.

-Engage with African agroecology initiatives such as the Alliance for Food Sovereignty in Africa (AFSA) to create or strengthen joint initiatives with Jesuit, Roman Catholic, and other relevant resources and networks.

-Engage with the Kircher Network, the International Association of Jesuit Universities (IAJU), and the Laudato Si’ Action Platform (LSAP) to support transdisciplinary research efforts.

-Assist the Loving Our Land and Neighbour (LOLN) project steering group with partnership development, strategic planning, and grant proposal writing. LOLN is a related agroecology research initiative based at the LSRI.

The candidate will possess or demonstrate:

-A Master’s degree or PhD in agriculture or agronomy, natural sciences, international development, environmental ethics, eco-theology, or a related field.

-The passion, energy, persistence, and resilience to take on the challenge and opportunity of scaling agroecology in Africa.

-Qualities of leadership and initiative, as proven by previous career roles, and organisational skills to ensure projects are brought to completion in a timely manner.

-Excellent communication skills, in writing and in person, demonstrating the qualities required to engage, network and influence the stakeholders who determine policy and practice.

-Strong research and academic skills, with a proven ability to translate research into impactful policies and practices.

-Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment, particularly across Europe and Africa.

The candidate will report to:

-For day-to-day supervision, including research components: Dr Peter Rožič SJ, Director, IERN

-For engagement and impact components: Dr Adam Parr, Chair, The Downforce Trust

In addition to regular supervision, there will be monthly progress with The Downforce Trust.

The LSRI, directed by Dr Celia Deane-Drummond, conducts innovative transdisciplinary research at the intersection of theology, ecology and the social and natural sciences in the context of the global climate crisis. By means of this research, the LSRI aims to generate societal transformation through coordinated engagement with key ecclesial and global stakeholders. 

The IERN, directed by Dr Peter Rožič SJ, is a global initiative to connect academics and practitioners related to the Integral Ecology paradigm. It is based at Campion Hall, University of Oxford, and forms part of the LSRI.

The Downforce Trust is a UK registered charity whose purpose is to accelerate action on climate change. The Trust works with a range of organisations seeking to transform energy generation and agriculture in line with the Exponential Roadmap (exponentialroadmap.org). Initiatives include www.sri-2030.org, inspired by the work of Henri de Laulanié SJ.

All staff at Campion Hall are employed by the Jesuits in Britain under its legal name the Society of Jesus Trust registered charity numbers 230165 /SC040490. 

Appointment is conditional on verification of the candidate’s right to work in the UK and satisfactory references, including one from the current employer.

The LSRI offers a supportive, family-friendly, and flexible working environment. The LSRI is an Equal Opportunities Employer committed to equality and diversity.

-Pension rights: Pension contributions to TRCP Pension Scheme (Jesuits in Britain).

-Meals: Free lunch is provided in Hall when on duty. 

-Annual leave entitlement: The post-holder will be entitled to 30 days’ paid leave plus 8 days bank holidays (pro-rata) in each year.

-Probation: Three months

-Notice period: During the initial probationary period (year one) notice will be a fortnight on either side. Subsequent to satisfactory review and confirmation in the post, the notice period will be one month on either side.

-GOP: None, but sympathy with the aims and mission of the research and engagement activities is desirable.

This role is specific to the LSRI at Campion Hall, and University of Oxford terms and conditions do not apply. Campion Hall is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Any conduct that is offensive or detrimental to fellow employees or College members on grounds of age, colour, disability, ethnic origin, marital status, nationality, national origin, parental status, race, religion or belief, gender, or sexual orientation will not be tolerated.

For further questions, please contact lsri.administrator@campion.ox.ac.uk.

Applicants should submit a cover letter explaining their qualifications and experience relevant to the post, along with a curriculum vitae, including a list of three potential referees with addresses, emails and other contact details.

Applications should be submitted to Ms Harriet David, LSRI Project & Operations Manager, at lsri.administrator@campion.ox.ac.uk by noon on 12 November 2024.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview at Campion Hall on 25 November 2024 (date to be confirmed). Candidates must be available for interview on this date.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.