Job Description
About the Department
The Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Reading is a research-active, vibrant academic community committed to excellence in teaching, research, and policy engagement. We are now seeking to appoint two Lecturers in International Relations with distinct areas of specialism:
- Contemporary War and Conflict
- International Security
These roles offer the opportunity to join a department that is globally connected and engaged, with a focus on research that addresses pressing international challenges.
The role
As a Lecturer in International Relations, you will:
- Deliver high-quality, research-led teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes
- Supervise student research projects in International Relations and Security Studies
- Conduct innovative, high-impact research in your area of expertise
- Contribute to the department’s Centre for Global Security and Governance
- Support student recruitment, guidance, and academic administration
- We are particularly interested in candidates whose work addresses:
- The changing character of contemporary conflict and warfare
- Global security challenges, including emerging technologies, climate change, environmental security, and cybersecurity
- Policy-relevant research with measurable impact
- A record of producing high-quality research outputs and the potential to secure external research funding will be highly valued.
What we’re looking for
Successful candidates will normally have:
- A PhD in International Relations, Politics, Security Studies, or a related discipline
- An ambitious, innovative research agenda capable of contributing to a strong REF return
- Experience of teaching and supervising at university level
- The ability to engage students with stimulating, research-led teaching
- A commitment to academic professionalism and supporting an inclusive student experience
- We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, interdisciplinary approaches, or expertise in areas that enhance the department’s existing strengths.
- Contract and working arrangements
- Permanent, full-time appointments (1.0 FTE)
- Based at Whiteknights Campus, Reading
- Flexible working and part-time arrangements will be considered
- Skilled Worker visa sponsorship may be possible; applicants must check eligibility via the UK Visas and Immigration guidance
Equality, diversity and inclusion
The University of Reading is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We actively encourage applications from:
- Women and LGBTQIA+ scholars
- Racialised minorities
- Candidates from other underrepresented groups
The University supports:
- The Athena SWAN Charter for gender equality
- The Race Equality Charter
- LGBT+ equality initiatives
- Disability inclusion as a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2)
- Applications for job-share, flexible, and part-time roles will be considered in line with operational needs.