Job Description
Role Overview
The University of Reading is seeking to appoint a Lecturer in Human Geography with a strong grounding in critical geography and experience in quantitative and/or mixed-methods teaching. This post sits within the Department of Geography and Environmental Science and contributes to both teaching and research excellence.
The role is part of the Human Geography Research Cluster (HGRC), aligned with the Global Development Research Division (GDRD). The department is particularly interested in applicants whose research engages with inequality, power relations, and transformative social and environmental change.
Applicants should clearly demonstrate how their work complements and strengthens existing departmental expertise, particularly in areas such as political, cultural, urban, feminist, environmental, participatory, and development geography.
UK academic employment context
Teaching Responsibilities
The successful candidate will contribute to the delivery of innovative and research-led teaching across undergraduate Human Geography programmes. This includes:
- Teaching core Human Geography concepts and debates
Delivering training in quantitative and/or mixed research methods
Supporting field-based and classroom learning activities
Supervising undergraduate dissertations
Contributing to curriculum design and module development
You will also contribute to teaching across degree programmes such as Human Geography, Human and Physical Geography, and Geography and Economics.
Research Expectations
This role requires a strong commitment to research excellence and academic impact. You will be expected to:
- Develop an independent and collaborative research programme
Publish high-quality outputs in leading academic journals
Prepare and submit competitive research grant applications
Seek external research funding opportunities
Contribute to interdisciplinary research activity within the department
Candidate Requirements
Essential Criteria
- PhD in Human Geography or a closely related discipline
Strong publication record or clear potential for high-quality outputs
Experience in designing and delivering innovative undergraduate teaching
Knowledge of quantitative and/or mixed research methods
Ability to teach key Human Geography concepts and methodologies
Desirable Experience
- Experience preparing research funding applications
Evidence of potential to secure external research grants
Experience supervising undergraduate research projects
Academic Contribution
In addition to teaching and research responsibilities, you will:
- Participate in departmental administration and academic citizenship
Contribute to fieldwork and broader teaching delivery activities
Support PhD supervision where appropriate
Engage in collaborative academic and professional initiatives
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Reading promotes an inclusive academic culture and is committed to equality, diversity, and accessibility. It actively supports initiatives such as Athena SWAN, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBT+ equality frameworks.
Flexible working arrangements, including part-time and job-share options, will be considered where feasible.
Visa Sponsorship Information
This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to meeting UK Home Office eligibility criteria and points requirements. Applicants should confirm their eligibility before applying.
Summary
This Lecturer position offers an opportunity to join a research-active department focused on critical Human Geography. The role combines innovative teaching, methodological expertise in quantitative and/or mixed methods, and impactful research addressing global inequalities and societal transformation.