Lecturer in International Relations x2(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Department
The Department of Politics and International Relations at the University of Reading is internationally recognised for research and teaching in global politics, security, and governance. Located on the University’s award-winning Whiteknights campus, the department offers a collegial and intellectually vibrant environment, with strong links between research, teaching, and policy engagement.
We are now seeking to appoint two permanent Lecturers in International Relations, strengthening our expertise in International Security.
The Opportunities
We welcome applications for two distinct but complementary posts:
- Lecturer in International Relations (Contemporary War & Conflict)
- Lecturer in International Relations (International Security)
We are open to a broad range of theoretical, methodological, and interdisciplinary approaches. We are particularly keen to hear from scholars whose work engages with areas such as:
- The evolving character of war and conflict
- Global and international security orders
- Strategy and contemporary warfare
- Emerging and non-traditional security challenges, including:
- New and disruptive technologies
- Climate change and environmental security
- Cybersecurity and digital conflict
Research Expectations
Successful candidates will demonstrate a clear and ambitious research agenda in International Relations and/or International Security, with the potential to produce high-quality outputs suitable for submission to the Research Excellence Framework (REF).
We particularly welcome applicants whose work:
- Is policy-relevant and capable of generating real-world impact
- Engages with international or national policy communities
- Shows promise in attracting external research funding
- UK research funding landscape (official)
Teaching & Academic Contribution
You will be expected to contribute to core undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in International Relations and International Security, while also delivering research-led teaching aligned with your specialist expertise.
Teaching contributions may include:
- International Relations and Global Security
- War, Conflict, and Strategy
- Contemporary Warfare and Security Studies
In addition, you will:
- Play an active role in the Centre for Global Security and Governance
- Contribute to student support and academic mentoring
- Participate in recruitment, assessment, and departmental administration
Visa & Right to Work Information
By reference to the applicable Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code, sponsorship may be available under the UK Skilled Worker route. Applicants considering this option should ensure they meet the points-based eligibility requirements before applying.
- Skilled Worker visa guidance (UK Government)
- UK Visas and Immigration (official)
- Visa eligibility will be discussed only with shortlisted candidates.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Reading is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive academic community. We strongly encourage applications from:
- Women
- LGBTQIA+ scholars
- Racialised and ethnic minority candidates
- Disabled academics
- Other groups under-represented in higher education
The University proudly supports:
- Athena SWAN Charter (gender equality)
- Race Equality Charter
- LGBTQ+ inclusion initiatives
- Disability Confident Employer – Level 2
- Equality Act 2010 (official UK guidance)
Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Why Join the University of Reading?
- A supportive, research-active academic environment
- Strong institutional commitment to impact and engagement
- Excellent professional development opportunities
- A green, accessible campus with award-winning sustainability credentials
