Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Description of the Position
The Department of Audiovisual Communication and Advertising at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB) invites applications for a doctoral position within the research project PID2024-160145NB-C21, funded by the Spanish State Research Agency (AEI).
The selected candidate will join the research team and work in close collaboration with the PI and the research team, the doctoral researcher will:
  - Develop a PhD thesis aligned with the objectives of the project.
 
- Contribute to the design, implementation, and advancement of the research.
 
- Present and publish findings derived from the project.
 
- Assist in organizing and participating in academic events such as conferences, workshops, and seminars related to the project.
 
About the Project
The project PID2024-160145NB-C21 seeks to understand how audiovisual production structures, professional roles, and creators’ lived experiences influence the production, circulation, and representation of LGBTIQ+ content, filling gaps in Media Production Studies and Queer Production Studies. It does so by examining differences between professional, independent, and grassroots creators; exploring how platforms, both traditional and social media, shape creative practices; and investigating how identities such as age, sexuality, gender, and ethnicity intersect with production routines, creative agency, and well-being.
In addition, it assesses the impact of emerging professional roles—including intimacy coordinators and trans consultants—on authenticity and representation, while also connecting producer perspectives with audience needs, particularly those of older audiences and queer subcultures.
Ultimately, the project aims to reveal how industrial contexts, cultural norms, and professional dynamics shape LGBTIQ+ portrayals, authenticity, and inclusivity in media.
Main Requirements
Academic Background
Master’s degree or advanced studies in Communication, Social Sciences, Psychology, Media Studies, or related fields.
Methodological Skills
  - Familiarity with both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
 
- Experience in data analysis and use of specialized software (e.g., ATLAS.ti, NVivo, SPSS, R, Python, SmartPLS, etc.).
 
- Ability to design and implement surveys and questionnaires (e.g., Qualtrics, LimeSurvey, Google Forms).
 
Languages
  - Advanced proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking).
 
- Knowledge of Spanish and/or Catalan will be considered an asset.
 
Technological and Creative Skills
  - Knowledge and experience in audiovisual production, including editing and the use of digital media tools.
 
Desirable Qualifications
  - Research experience: Previous participation in academic or applied research projects.
 
- Publications: Contributions to journal articles, book chapters, or conference presentations.
 
- Project management: Strong organizational skills, ability to coordinate research tasks, and meet deadlines.
 
- Research interests: Alignment with topics such as communication, science, technology, digital media, gender, or social representation.
 
Personal Competencies
  - Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
 
- Excellent academic writing abilities in English.
 
- Capacity for autonomy, initiative, and teamwork.
 
- Adaptability to international and interdisciplinary research environments.
 
Application Procedure
Applications must be submitted from October 29 to November 19 (both inclusive) through the UAB Research Portal at the following link:
https://tauler.seu-e.cat/detall?idEns=11&idEdicte=594087
Further Information
The contract terms and conditions document is available in three languages (Catalan, Spanish, and English) at the following link (same as for application procedure): https://tauler.seu-e.cat/detall?idEns=11&idEdicte=594087
For additional information about the position or the project, please contact:
Dr. Maite Soto-Sanfiel
Principal Investigator, PID2024-160145NB-C21
Department of Audiovisual Communication and Advertising
Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)
Email: mariateresa.soto@uab.es