Job Description
About the Department
The Department of Science and Technology Studies (STS) explores how science, technology, culture, and society shape one another across time and geography. The department approaches the history of science as a global, interdisciplinary field, welcoming perspectives that extend beyond European traditions — particularly scholarship engaging Asian or Middle Eastern contexts.
This fixed-term teaching role supports undergraduate education during the 2026–27 academic year. The position is ideal for a scholar who enjoys translating historical knowledge into engaging classroom experiences while contributing to the intellectual life of a dynamic department.
Role Summary
The Associate Lecturer will focus primarily on delivering undergraduate teaching and supporting related academic activities. Teaching responsibilities centre on historical perspectives of science and religion, spanning Antiquity through the Early Modern era.
Core responsibilities include:
- Delivering lectures, seminars, and guided discussions
- Assessing coursework and providing timely, constructive feedback
- Supporting module administration and coordination
- Participating in departmental academic activities
- Contributing to student engagement and academic support initiatives
Likely teaching assignments include:
- History of Science: Antiquity to Enlightenment — introducing first-year students to early scientific traditions
- Science and Religion — examining historical intersections between knowledge systems and belief frameworks
- Additional duties may include occasional postgraduate teaching support, assessment assistance, recruitment activities, or student mentoring sessions.
- This appointment is fixed in duration and cannot be extended.
Candidate Profile
The department seeks a scholar with strong historical expertise and a commitment to inclusive, high-quality teaching.
You should bring:
- A completed PhD (or equivalent professional experience) in a relevant field
- Demonstrated knowledge of ancient to early modern science history
- Familiarity with historical interactions between science and religion
- Excellent communication and teaching skills
- Organisational ability and reliability in meeting deadlines
- A collaborative and student-centred approach
- Availability during scheduled teaching periods is essential. Each module requires approximately 7.3 contact hours per week.
- The postholder is expected to operate in line with institutional equality, sustainability, and professional conduct standards.
Application Materials
Applicants must submit:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Teaching-focused cover letter
- A recent writing sample
- Interviews are expected in late March or early April 2026.
Working Environment & Benefits
Staff joining STS benefit from a supportive academic culture and a comprehensive employment package, including:
- Generous annual leave entitlement (41 days total)
- Career-average pension scheme
- Cycle-to-work and season ticket loan programmes
- Family-friendly leave provisions
- Staff wellbeing and counselling services
- Access to campus childcare, gym, and health benefits
Equality, Inclusion & Professional Standards
The department is committed to building an academic environment where diverse perspectives thrive. Applications are strongly encouraged from communities historically underrepresented in higher education.
The department holds a Bronze award under the Athena SWAN framework, recognising ongoing efforts toward gender equity in academia.
Relevant UK Government Guidance
The following official resources may be helpful for applicants:
- UK employment rights overview
- Equality and anti-discrimination protections
- Workplace pensions guidance
- Sustainability and public sector responsibilities
- Right to work information (important since visa sponsorship is unavailable)