Lecturer, Art and Visual Cultures c.1300–1700(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Department

UCL’s Department of History of Art is recognised globally for its innovative research and teaching. Situated within the Faculty of Social & Historical Sciences, the department brings together diverse approaches to understanding visual culture—spanning material practices, image theory, and technological developments across time and geography.

The department has a strong reputation for excellence, supported by an active postgraduate community and a broad portfolio of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Its research culture is enriched by close connections with London’s world-renowned museums, galleries, and collections.

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join a leading academic community as a Lecturer specialising in art and visual cultures from c.1300 to 1700.

• You will contribute to both teaching and research, helping to shape the department’s intellectual direction while engaging with students at all levels. The role is suited to a scholar whose work demonstrates originality and contributes to contemporary debates within art history and visual culture studies.

Start Date: 1 September 2026

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
  Develop and lead modules related to early modern art and visual culture
  Supervise student research at undergraduate and postgraduate levels
  Conduct and publish internationally recognised research
  Contribute to departmental administration and academic leadership
  Engage with wider academic and cultural networks, including museums and galleries

Research Profile

The department welcomes applications from scholars whose work engages critically with early modern visual cultures in innovative ways.

Areas of interest may include:

• Cross-cultural and global artistic exchange
  Gender, sexuality, race, and class in visual representation
  Materiality and artistic production
  Visual technologies and media practices
  Environmental and ecological perspectives in art history

Applications are encouraged from candidates working across any geographical region, including those whose research connects with London’s collections and institutions.

Eligibility & Visa Information

This role is open to international applicants and qualifies for visa sponsorship under UK immigration routes.

Helpful UK Government resources include:

• Skilled Worker visa guidance
  Check visa requirements
  Right to work in the UK
  Income tax and salary overview
  National Insurance registration

About You

You will be an established early-career academic with a strong and developing research profile.

Essential Criteria

• PhD in Art History or a closely related discipline
  Evidence of high-quality research publications
  Ability to teach effectively across a range of topics and levels
  Engagement with current theoretical and methodological debates
  Strong communication and organisational skills

Desirable Attributes

• Innovative and interdisciplinary approach to teaching and research
  Ability to connect specialist research with broader intellectual frameworks
  Interest in collaborative or public-facing research initiatives

Salary & Benefits

UCL offers a highly competitive package, including:

• 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
  Defined benefit pension scheme (CARE)
  Cycle-to-work and travel loan schemes
  On-site childcare and fitness facilities
  Enhanced parental leave policies
  Employee wellbeing and support services
  Discounted private medical insurance

Application Process

To apply, please submit:

An academic CV
A cover letter addressing how you meet the role criteria

Additional documents (e.g. references or writing samples) are not required at this stage.

• Selection Timeline
  Closing Date: 26 April 2026
  First-stage interviews (online): 19 May 2026
  Final interviews (in-person): 4 June 2026

Diversity & Inclusion

UCL is committed to fostering an inclusive academic environment where diverse perspectives are valued. Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals who are underrepresented in higher education, including those from minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled applicants, LGBTQI+ communities, and women in senior academic roles.

The department holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, reflecting its commitment to advancing gender equality.