Two Assistant Professor positions: Human geography, Durham University, UK

We are currently seeking applications for two positions in human geography at Durham University at the assistant professor (grade 8) level. The closing date for applications is 12th of January 2025.

The Department of Geography at Durham University seeks to appoint outstanding individuals to 2 Assistant Professorships in Human Geography who have expertise in the geographies of nature, climate change, and just and sustainable futures that will complement and extend our current work in one or more of the following research clusters: Geographies of Life; Economy & Culture; Politics-State-Space; Urban Worlds.

The successful candidate will develop world-class scholarship in their field, and we encourage work that develops a range of theoretical, conceptual, and/or methodological approaches. The successful candidate will have completed (or be close to completing) a PhD in a relevant field and demonstrate a track record of, or potential for, internationally excellent and agenda-setting publications and securing external funding. They will have experience of or show a commitment to delivering excellent teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels and will be expected to contribute to undergraduate and Master’s-level teaching on our human geography programmes. In addition to their research, the successful candidates will perform departmental administrative tasks commensurate with their grade.

Geography at Durham consistently ranks among the very best departments not just in the UK, but also in the world. We were ranked =1st in REF 2021 and our research environment was awarded the highest possible 100% 4* score. Our students report satisfaction levels of 95% in the National Student Survey. From the field to the virtual environment, we are dedicated to exploring innovative methodologies. As an Assistant Professor, you will benefit from our commitment to ensure that your teaching load is sustainable and from a generous research leave policy. This will give you time to carry out internationally excellent research, informing your teaching and supervision at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. You will be able to apply to the Department’s Research Development Fund for pump-priming work, and we support lecturers with a generous travel allowance. Your work will have the support of a departmental research office, cartographic and photographic support.

We are currently developing a new suite of Master’s programmes around the idea of sustainable futures, particularly in the context of climate change. These posts offer an exciting opportunity to make a major contribution to the development of these programmes, as well as more broadly to internationally excellent research and teaching, while allowing you unrivalled opportunities to progress and embed your career in an exciting and progressive institution. We are proud of our efforts to decolonise our curricula and ensure inclusive fieldwork for staff and students and to be part of a vibrant university community that celebrates diversity. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds to join us, and candidates with lived experience or practice-based work with marginalised communities are also encouraged to apply. Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1 September 2025.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Chair of the Search Committee (anna.j.secor@durham.ac.uk) with any questions you might have.