Head of the Department of Aerospace and Aircraft Engineering

At Kingston University, we are proud of our diverse and inclusive academic community, where students and staff from around the world come together to learn, innovate and make a difference. Located in the historic riverside town of Kingston upon Thames and home to our award‑winning Town House building, the University combines an inspiring environment with sector leading facilities. With an overall Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework and recognition as the UK’s leading university for Future Skills, we are committed to equipping our students with the knowledge, skills and adaptability required to thrive in a rapidly evolving global workforce.

Our Town House Strategy sets out a bold, long term vision to redefine higher education. Through our Future Skills initiative, we embed the capabilities most valued by employers into every undergraduate programme. Alongside this, we are strengthening research and knowledge exchange through our Knowledge Exchange and Research Institutes, deepening partnerships with industry and professional bodies and enhancing our civic impact to enable a more sustainable future socially, economically and environmentally.

We are seeking an outstanding and experienced academic leader to take on the role of Head of the Department of Aerospace and Aircraft Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering, Computing and the Environment. Based at our specialist Roehampton Vale campus, the Department benefits from exceptional facilities including advanced flight simulators, wind tunnels, composite and fabrication laboratories and strong industry connections. This is a pivotal leadership role, responsible for setting the strategic direction of the Department, ensuring excellence in student experience and academic quality and strengthening research, enterprise and external engagement.

You will lead and inspire a committed team of academic and technical colleagues, drive innovation in curriculum design and delivery and contribute to the Faculty’s ambitions for growth and impact.

You are a credible and collaborative academic leader with a strong profile in Aerospace and Aircraft Engineering or a closely related discipline. You will hold a doctorate or demonstrate equivalent professional standing and bring substantial experience in higher education, including evidence of academic leadership and line management. You have a track record of achievement in teaching, research, enterprise or professional practice appropriate to a senior role and an understanding of the expectations of students, employers and relevant professional bodies. You combine strategic vision with operational effectiveness and have the ability to motivate and develop colleagues while fostering a positive and inclusive culture.

Kingston University offers an ambitious, supportive and forward‑thinking environment in which to shape the future of aerospace education. With outstanding facilities, strong industry links and a clear institutional strategy, this is an opportunity to make a lasting contribution at a university committed to excellence and impact.

Closing date for applications noon on Monday 23 March 2026. Kingston University values the diversity of its student and staff body and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.