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- Tasks: Teach and supervise students in Islamic Art, focusing on the Safavid and Mughal Empires.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Cambridge's Department of History of Art.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for collaboration, research funding, and shaping future programmes.
- Why this job: Be part of a vibrant academic community and contribute to innovative art history education.
- Qualifications: Hold a PhD in art history or related fields, with expertise in Islamic Art.
- Other info: Applications close on 29 June 2025; informal enquiries are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
The Department of History of Art at the University of Cambridge seeks to appoint a permanent Assistant Professor in Islamic Art (ca. 1500-ca.1700) of the Safavid and/or Mughal Empires. The Department welcomes applications from specialists in all mediums of art, including painting and the book arts, metalwork, ceramics, sculpture, and architecture.
The successful candidate will be expected to take up appointment on or close to 1 October 2025. We are seeking an individual with a record of high-level research achievement commensurate with their career stage and who has the potential to become a key contributor to the Department's teaching and research activities. Candidates will have the ability or potential to undertake collaborative research and to secure external research funding.
The successful applicant will have a unique opportunity to help shape the Department's future. The postholder will contribute significantly to the new MPhil in the Global History of Art and Architecture, launching in 2026-27. The successful applicant will be required to teach and examine undergraduates, and to supervise and examine postgraduate work for the MPhil and PhD. It is anticipated that there will be opportunities to collaborate with colleagues across the University, including at the Fitzwilliam Museum (in which Islamic art is well represented) and the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies.
Candidates will hold undergraduate and doctoral degrees in history of art, South Asian or Middle Eastern studies, or a related discipline, with a specialism in the field advertised. FHEA accreditation and experience of curriculum development is desirable.
In order for applications to be considered, applicants must upload:
- A covering letter, explaining the reasons for your application and how your knowledge, skills and experience match the requirements of the role you are applying for;
- A teaching statement, outlining your experience, interests, and approach to teaching;
- A research statement, outlining your plans for research, scholarship, and grant capture over the next 5 years;
- If available, two recently-published research articles or book chapters or an unpublished writing sample (e.g. a dissertation chapter or submitted article) if published work is not available;
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV), to include full details of educational qualifications and academic experience, and a list of publications;
- Three references from referees familiar with your work. Applicants should ask their referees to send their references to references@csah.cam.ac.uk by the closing date.
The closing date for applications is midnight (BST) on Sunday 29 June 2025 and interviews are expected to take place in September 2025, subject to change. Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to the Head of the Department of History of Art, Professor Alexander Marr hod-hoart@aha.cam.ac.uk. Enquiries about the application process may be made to the HR team in the School of Arts and Humanities sahhr@admin.cam.ac.uk.
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds for this vacancy, as people from these backgrounds are currently underrepresented at this level in our Faculty. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Assistant Professor in Islamic Art (ca. 1500-ca. 1700) of the Safavid and/or Mughal Empires employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
references@csah.cam.ac.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Professor in Islamic Art (ca. 1500-ca. 1700) of the Safavid and/or Mughal Empires
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of Islamic art, particularly those who specialise in the Safavid and Mughal Empires. Attend conferences, seminars, or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues and collaborators, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current research and teaching initiatives at the University of Cambridge, especially those related to the new MPhil in the Global History of Art and Architecture. Familiarising yourself with their programmes will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your commitment to contributing to their academic community.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to the Head of the Department of History of Art for an informal chat about the role. This can provide you with valuable insights into what they are looking for in a candidate and allow you to express your enthusiasm for the position directly.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on funding opportunities for research in Islamic art. Being proactive in identifying potential grants or collaborations can showcase your initiative and ability to secure external funding, which is a key aspect of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Professor in Islamic Art (ca. 1500-ca. 1700) of the Safavid and/or Mughal Empires
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, thoroughly read the job description to understand the specific requirements and expectations for the Assistant Professor position. This will help tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should clearly explain why you are interested in the role and how your background aligns with the department's needs. Be sure to mention your research achievements and teaching philosophy.
Prepare Your Teaching and Research Statements: Outline your teaching experience, interests, and methods in your teaching statement. In your research statement, detail your future research plans and how you intend to secure funding. Make these documents clear and concise.
Gather References Early: Contact your referees well in advance to request their references. Ensure they are familiar with your work and can provide strong endorsements. Remind them to send their references to the specified email by the closing date.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Art History
Make sure you have a solid understanding of Islamic art, particularly from the Safavid and Mughal Empires. Be prepared to discuss specific artworks, artists, and historical contexts that relate to your specialism.
✨Showcase Your Research Plans
During the interview, clearly outline your research agenda for the next five years. Highlight how your work aligns with the department's goals and how you plan to secure external funding.
✨Engage with Teaching Philosophy
Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy and methods. Share examples of how you've engaged students in the past and how you plan to contribute to the new MPhil programme.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a few insightful questions ready for the interviewers. This shows your genuine interest in the department and its future, as well as your eagerness to collaborate with colleagues across the university.
