Assistant Professor - Weave in Edinburgh
About the role
Role: Assistant Professor – Weave
Grade and Salary: Grade 7 (£37,694 - £47,389) pro rata per annum
Contract Type: Part time (0.4FTE/14 hours per week), Fixed term for 10 months
Location: Galashiels
About Our School
The School of Textiles and Design (SoTD) is currently part of an approved programme of organisational change within the University. We are preparing to transition to operate as a department within the School of Social Sciences, while retaining our distinct identity, specialist facilities and practice-based approach to teaching and research. As a centre of excellence in design, SoTD brings together talented students from across the globe to study collaboratively in Creative Environments, Communication and Design and Fashion and Textiles disciplines. With a rich heritage spanning over 140 years, the School has long been a pioneer in design innovation. Perfectly situated at the pulsating heart of Scotland's luxury textile industry, the School is a leading education and research institution with specialist resources and industry standard production equipment that are amongst the best in the UK. The School benefits from excellent facilities across its two campus locations in the Scottish Borders and Dubai.
About Our Team
The Fashion & Textiles team at the School of Textiles and Design is a dynamic and interdisciplinary group, delivering undergraduate degrees in Fashion and Design for Textiles and postgraduate degrees in Fashion and Textiles Design and Fashion and Textiles Management.
Role Description
We welcome applications for a temporary position at Assistant Professor (Grade 7) level to join the Fashion & Textiles team. This role is part-time (0.4 FTE) and is based at our Scottish Borders campus in Galashiels. Reporting to the Global Head of Fashion & Textiles, this is a teaching-focused appointment. The successful candidate will bring considerable expertise in Weave and be able to contribute to our taught programmes.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver high quality courses in line with your expertise to enable our students to become excellent practitioners.
- Undertake continuous professional development both through the University and externally to remain up to date with current learning and teaching practice and external influencers in our sector.
- Share best practice in learning and teaching methodologies, working with colleagues to develop scholarship.
- Contribute to programme administration, including timetabling, assessment management, external examiner liaison, and annual programme review.
- Act as a point of contact for students, supporting their academic progress and wellbeing in coordination with the University's student support services.
- Supervise student projects, field trips and, where appropriate, placements.
- Contribute to the planning, design and development of objectives and material.
- Select appropriate assessment methods, assess the work and progress of students on this basis and provide constructive feedback to students.
Scholarship and Research
- Reflect on practice and the development of own teaching and learning skills.
- Engage in subject, professional and pedagogy research as required to support teaching activities.
- Contribute to scholarly projects that enhance the discipline.
Please note that this job description is not exhaustive, and the role holder may be required to undertake other relevant duties commensurate with the grading of the post and its general responsibilities. Activities may be subject to amendment over time as the role develops and/or priorities and requirements evolve.
Education, Qualifications and Experience
The person requirements to successfully perform the role are as follows:
- Essential: First degree in a directly relevant field.
- Demonstrable experience in weave.
- Prior experience of teaching in a higher education environment, including studio and workshop-based teaching.
- Emotional intelligence, with a demonstrable collegiate attitude and proven interpersonal skills.
- Desirable: A PhD or Master’s qualification in a relevant discipline.
- Recognised teaching qualification – e.g. PG Certificate in Teaching and Learning or membership/fellowship of Advance HE.
- Evidence of teaching experience.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted up to midnight (UK time) on Wednesday 16th July 2026. We expect to begin interviews immediately. Please submit via the Heriot-Watt online recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing your interest and suitability for the post; (2) Full CV that includes the list of publications; (3) Research and teaching statements, showing your strengths in one or more of the research areas above.
For informal discussions about the position please contact Bruce Roberts, Global Head of Discipline for Fashion & Textiles, B.M.Roberts@hw.ac.uk.
Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all. Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups.
We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g. part-time working and job share options.
Your tasks
Teach and inspire students in the art of weaving while developing innovative courses.
Your profile
Must have expertise in weave and prior teaching experience in higher education.
What's also included
Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and professional development opportunities.
Tech stack & ways of working
Assistant Professor - Weave in Edinburgh employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University in Orkney is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of renewable energy. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to numerous growth opportunities while contributing to impactful research and curriculum development in marine energy technologies. The unique location in Orkney, known for its pioneering work in offshore energy, provides a stimulating backdrop for meaningful and rewarding employment.
View Heriot-Watt University profile
Your perspectives
Make a real impact in students' lives and shape the future of fashion and textiles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Get in with Local Boutiques
Fashion isn't just about the big names; local boutiques are often on the lookout for temporary staff, especially during busy seasons. Pop in with your CV and a smile, chat with the staff, and show genuine interest – it can lead to an on-the-spot opportunity or, at the very least, a good contact!
Leverage Fashion Events
Fashion shows and local events are goldmines for networking. Attend as many as you can! Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, designers, or even models – you never know who might have a lead on temporary roles that aren't advertised yet.
Utilise Social Media Like a Pro
Follow brands and influencers in the fashion-apparel industry on social media. Engage with their content and stay updated on their hiring announcements. Many companies post about temporary positions on their Instagram or Twitter, so keep your eyes peeled!
Check Out Our Site for Temp Roles
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website for temp roles at companies like Heriot-Watt University. We regularly update our listings, and your best shot at landing something is to jump on it as soon as it drops – so keep checking!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Style
In the fashion-apparel world, creativity and personal style are key! Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique take on fashion—add a touch of personality, maybe even a mood board if you’re feeling adventurous. This is your chance to show how you’d fit into Heriot-Watt University's vibe!
Highlight Relevant Experience
For a temporary role, experience is everything. If you've worked in retail, styling, or even as a personal shopper, make sure to highlight that in your application. We want to see how your past experiences can benefit Heriot-Watt University during this short-term stint!
Include a Portfolio of Your Work
If you’ve got a portfolio—whether that's photos of your styling or designs—attach it! We love to see what you're capable of. It’s a great way to stand out, especially in temporary roles where you might need to make a quick impact at Heriot-Watt University.
Emphasise Your Adaptability
Temporary roles often require juggling different tasks and adapting to changing needs. In your application, mention instances where you’ve showcased flexibility and quick learning. Showing that you’re ready to jump right in will surely catch our eye at Heriot-Watt University.
How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University
Show Off Your Style
In the fashion-apparel world, your personal style can speak volumes. Make sure to express your fashion sense in your outfit and show off any unique pieces that represent your style while keeping it professional. This gives the interviewers a glimpse of your creativity and flair.
Bring Your Portfolio to Life
For a temporary role, it'll be essential to demonstrate your skills quickly. Have a well-curated portfolio that showcases your previous work, whether it's designs, styling, or merchandising. Be prepared to talk through your thought process and the impact your work has had in previous roles.
Prepare for Trend Talk
Expect questions about current fashion trends and how they relate to the brand Heriot-Watt University. Being able to discuss recent runway looks, sustainable practices, or trending colours will show your knowledge of the industry and that you’re up-to-date with what's happening in fashion.
Highlight Your Adaptability
In a temporary position, demonstrating that you can hit the ground running is key. Share experiences from previous roles where you've quickly adapted to new trends or tackled fast-paced environments. Your ability to be flexible shows that you're ready to contribute from day one!
Locations
- Edinburgh
