Job Description
About the Role
The University of Reading is inviting applications for a Lecturer in Human Geography within its Department of Geography and Environmental Science.
This post is aimed at a critical human geographer whose research and teaching address pressing social, political, cultural, and environmental challenges. The role places a strong emphasis on examining inequality, power relations, and pathways toward more just and sustainable futures.
You will join a vibrant academic community within the Human Geography Research Cluster (HGRC), contributing to its mission of producing research that supports equitable and progressive societal change.
Research Focus
The successful candidate will be expected to develop an active and impactful research agenda aligned with themes such as:
- Social and environmental justice
Power, inequality, and global development
Cultural, feminist, political, or urban geographies
Participatory and critical methodologies
Sustainable and transformative futures
Your research should complement and expand the existing expertise within the HGRC and connect with broader work in the Global Development Research Division.
Teaching Responsibilities
You will contribute to high-quality teaching across undergraduate Geography programmes, including:
- Designing and delivering engaging and innovative lectures
Teaching core Human Geography concepts and qualitative research methods
Supervising undergraduate dissertations
Supporting field-based learning and practical teaching activities
Contributing to curriculum development across Geography programmes
The role requires a commitment to inclusive, student-centred teaching and the ability to inspire learners through critical and creative approaches.
About You
We are looking for an academic who is committed to both teaching excellence and impactful research.
Essential Requirements:
- A PhD in Human Geography or a closely related discipline
A strong track record (or clear potential) of producing high-quality research publications
Experience in developing or contributing to research funding applications
Ability to deliver innovative undergraduate teaching
Knowledge of core Human Geography theories and qualitative methodologies
Desirable Attributes:
- Experience securing external research funding
Interest in interdisciplinary collaboration
Engagement with fieldwork or participatory research approaches
Academic Responsibilities
Beyond teaching and research, you will also:
- Contribute to departmental administration and academic citizenship
Support postgraduate research students where appropriate
Engage in collaborative research activities within and beyond the university
Participate in curriculum enhancement and programme development
Visa & Eligibility Guidance
Applicants requiring sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route should review eligibility before applying:
- Skilled Worker visa overview
UK immigration points-based system
Right to work in the UK
UK visa sponsorship guidance
General visas and immigration information
Please note that visa advice will only be provided to shortlisted candidates.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
- University of Reading is committed to fostering an inclusive academic environment. The institution actively supports equality frameworks including the Athena SWAN Charter and Race Equality Charter, and promotes LGBT+ inclusion across its community.
Flexible working arrangements, including part-time or job-share options, will be considered where possible.
Contact Information
For informal enquiries:
- Dr Stuart Black – Head of School
Professor Tom Sizmur – Co-Head of Department
Why Apply?
- This is an opportunity to join a forward-thinking academic department committed to critical scholarship and meaningful societal impact. You will be part of a supportive research culture that values innovation, collaboration, and intellectual engagement with real-world challenges.
If you are passionate about critical human geography and want to contribute to teaching and research that addresses inequality and drives positive change, this role offers a strong academic platform.