Job Description
About the Department
The UCL History of Art Department is internationally recognised for its research excellence and innovative teaching. It brings together scholars working across a wide range of periods, geographies, and methodologies, with particular strengths in modern and contemporary art, material culture, and visual technologies.
The department maintains strong links with London’s major museums and galleries, creating a vibrant environment for both research and teaching. Its programmes span undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, including specialist degrees that integrate art history with materials and technology.
broader context on arts and humanities research in the UK
Role Overview
This permanent lectureship offers an opportunity to join a dynamic academic community and contribute to teaching and research in modern art and its theoretical frameworks.
You will play a central role in delivering high-quality teaching while developing your own research profile. The department is particularly interested in candidates whose work engages with contemporary debates and offers fresh perspectives on modern art across diverse global contexts.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
Design and update modules in modern art and theory
Supervise student research projects and dissertations
Conduct and publish high-quality research
Contribute to departmental administration and academic leadership
Engage with external cultural institutions and academic networks
This role aligns with UK professional standards for teaching excellence in higher education
About You
We are looking for a creative and intellectually ambitious academic with a strong research and teaching profile.
Essential criteria:
- PhD in Art History or a closely related discipline
Evidence of high-quality research and publications
Ability to teach modern art and critical theory
Strong communication and teaching skills
What will make you stand out:
- Innovative approaches to the study of modern art
Engagement with global, cross-cultural, or interdisciplinary perspectives
Research that explores the social, political, or aesthetic dimensions of art
Ability to connect specialised expertise to broader theoretical debates
 academic career pathways and working in the UK
Salary and Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, University College London offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- 41 days annual leave (including bank holidays and closure days)
Defined benefit pension scheme (CARE)
Flexible and hybrid working options
Cycle to work scheme and travel loans
On-site nursery and fitness facilities
Enhanced parental leave policies
Employee wellbeing support services
These benefits align with UK employment standards and protections
Visa and Eligibility
- This position is open to international applicants and may qualify for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route.
- All work must be carried out within the UK.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
University College London is committed to building a diverse and inclusive academic community. Applications are particularly encouraged from individuals who are underrepresented in higher education.
This commitment reflects UK equality legislation
Application Process
To apply, please submit:
- An academic CV
A covering letter addressing the selection criteria
Recruitment process:
- Closing date: 26 April 2026
First-stage (online) interviews: 26 May 2026
Final-stage (in-person) interviews: 10 June 2026
Please note that additional materials (e.g., writing samples) are not required at the initial stage.