Lecturer in Czech and Comparative Literature(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
Contribute to a Century of Excellence in Central & East European Studies
The UCL School of Slavonic and East European Studies (SSEES), founded in 1915, is internationally recognised for its scholarship on Central, Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, the Baltic region and Russia. As part of UCL’s Faculty of Social & Historical Sciences, SSEES combines disciplinary depth with regional expertise and global perspective.
We are seeking to appoint a Lecturer in Czech and Comparative Literature to join our Languages and Culture area. This is a permanent academic position for a scholar committed to research excellence, innovative teaching and meaningful engagement beyond the university.
The Role
This post combines research, teaching and academic leadership within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.
Research
You will:
- Develop an internationally recognised research profile in Czech literature and culture.
- Contribute to comparative literary scholarship, particularly within Central and Eastern Europe.
- Publish high-quality, original work in leading outlets.
- Engage in knowledge exchange and public-facing scholarship where appropriate.
- Contribute to research funding applications UKRI funding guidance
Your work should demonstrate both disciplinary depth and the ability to situate Czech literature within broader comparative, transnational or global contexts.
Teaching & Supervision
You will contribute across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes by:
- Designing and delivering modules in Czech language, literature and culture.
- Teaching comparative literature, particularly within the Central and Eastern European region.
- Supervising undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations.
- Supporting doctoral development within the School.
- Contributing to assessment, curriculum review and academic quality processes.
- Teaching practice should align with national expectations for UK higher education quality and standards UK Quality Code for Higher Education
- You will also support inclusive learning environments in line with the Equality Act 2010 (Equality Act guidance)
Academic Contribution
As a Lecturer, you will:
- Participate in departmental administration and committee work.
- Support the continued development of SSEES programmes.
- Contribute to the intellectual life of the School through seminars, events and collaboration.
- You will be supported by senior colleagues and the School Director in developing your academic trajectory.
About You
We are looking for a scholar who brings:
- A PhD in Czech literature or a closely related field.
- Postdoctoral research experience.
- A developing publication record demonstrating strong potential for international excellence.
- Advanced knowledge of Czech language and literary traditions.
- Expertise in at least one additional language and literary tradition from the SSEES region.
- Experience or interest in comparative literary approaches within Central and Eastern Europe.
- Experience teaching and assessing students in higher education.
- The ability to provide academic and pastoral support to diverse student cohorts.
- Strong written and spoken English.
- Confidence in using digital learning technologies and virtual learning environments.
- An understanding of research ethics and data protection in academic contexts is expected UK GDPR overview
International Applicants
UCL welcomes applications from international scholars.
This role meets the eligibility criteria for:
All successful applicants must demonstrate their right to work in the UK prior to appointment Right to work guidance
Why Join SSEES?
SSEES offers a distinctive academic setting where language, literature, history, politics and economics intersect. You will join a community that values interdisciplinary thinking and regional expertise within a global framework.
At UCL you will find:
- A research-intensive university with international reach
- A collaborative academic culture
- Diverse and engaged student cohorts
- Opportunities to contribute to public understanding of Central and Eastern Europe
Salary & Benefits
UCL provides a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including:
- 41 days leave (27 annual leave + 8 bank holidays + 6 closure days)
- Option to purchase 5 additional leave days
- Defined benefit CARE pension scheme
- Hybrid working arrangements
- Relocation support (where applicable)
- Immigration loan scheme
- Cycle to work and season ticket loans
- On-site nursery and gym facilities
- Enhanced family leave policies
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discounted medical insurance
- Further details are available via UCL Rewards and Benefits.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
UCL is committed to equality of opportunity and fostering a respectful, inclusive academic community. We believe diversity strengthens scholarship and enriches learning.
We particularly encourage applications from candidates currently underrepresented in UK higher education, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled applicants, LGBTQI+ communities, and women in senior academic roles.
Applicants should familiarise themselves with UCL policies relating to dignity at work, prevention of harassment and professional conduct.
