Lectureship in Criminal Law(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The School of Law at the University of Reading is seeking to appoint a Lecturer in Criminal Law to join its growing academic community. This is an opportunity to contribute to a forward-looking and research-active environment with a strong commitment to academic excellence and global engagement.

The successful candidate will play a dual role in advancing the School’s research profile and delivering high-quality teaching. You will contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, while also engaging in wider academic activities that enhance the student experience.

Key aspects of the role include:

Conducting high-quality research aligned with REF standards (3* and 4*)
Teaching Criminal Law across undergraduate and postgraduate levels
Supporting curriculum development and innovation in teaching
Contributing to student support, mentoring, and engagement
Participating in academic administration and School activities

About You

You will be an ambitious academic with a strong foundation in Criminal Law and a clear commitment to both teaching and research.

Essential requirements include:

A degree in Law or a related discipline
A completed PhD (or near completion)
A developing or established record of research outputs
Specialist expertise in Criminal Law
Experience or strong potential in university-level teaching
Excellent communication and organisational skills

You will also demonstrate:

The ability to work collaboratively within a team
A proactive approach to curriculum and student experience development
A clear and achievable research plan for the next five years

Experience in academic administration, pastoral care, or broader contributions to university life will be advantageous.

About the School of Law

The University of Reading School of Law is a vibrant and internationally engaged academic community. It is recognised for its strong research performance and commitment to delivering an excellent student experience.

In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF), the School significantly strengthened its research profile, with a high proportion of outputs rated as world-leading or internationally excellent.

The School encourages innovation in both teaching and research, fostering an environment where staff can thrive and contribute to meaningful academic and societal impact.

Working at the University of Reading

The University offers a supportive and inclusive working environment, with a strong focus on professional development and staff wellbeing. Flexible working arrangements, including part-time and job-share options, may be considered.

The University is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and actively supports initiatives such as the Athena SWAN Charter, Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ equality programmes. It is also a Disability Confident Employer.

Visa and Right to Work Information

This role may be eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa route, subject to meeting the relevant requirements.

For further guidance, please see:

Skilled Worker visa overview
Points-based immigration system guidance
Eligible occupations and SOC codes
Salary requirements for sponsorship
Proving your right to work in the UK

How to Apply

For full details and to submit your application, please refer to the University of Reading vacancies page.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds, and flexible working arrangements will be considered in line with operational needs.