Research Fellow (History/Geography/Anthropology/Architecture)

About the role

The NTU School of Humanities and the Asian School of the Environment are recruiting a Research Fellow for a 3-year project on mining for the energy transition in Southeast Asia. The project examines how mining for critical minerals is transforming landscapes and livelihoods, and integrates geoscience, artisanal knowledges, mineral cosmologies and histories of critical minerals. It welcomes proposals on political geology, geo-solidarities and mineral cosmologies, and encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver an original 3-year research project on the impact of mining for the energy transition on landscapes and livelihoods in Southeast Asia.
• Work independently and contribute to the intellectual direction of the research group.
• Help conceive and deliver a programme of public and scholarly events, including international conferences, seminars, public talks and exhibitions.

Required profile

• PhD degree in any discipline; History, Geography, Anthropology or Architecture preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to conceive and deliver an original substantive advanced research project in three years.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, solve problems under strict deadlines, and manage time and detail meticulously.

What we offer

• A stimulating research programme including international conferences, seminars, exhibitions, artistic collaborations and public programming.
• Field-based and archival research support.

Applicants must submit a CV (no more than four PDF pages) and a research proposal (no more than three single-spaced PDF pages, covering research questions, literature review, research plan, proposed field sites or archives, a brief bio and why the project suits them), plus the names and contact details of three references. Applications close on 4 December 2026; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.