Director of Postgraduate Research and Research Training - 0025-26

The Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (FHASS) is seeking to appoint a Director of Postgraduate Research and Research Training. This Faculty level leadership role is open to internal applicants only who must be an academic colleague within the Faculty and also hold a substantive post that exceeds the duration of the term of the appointment. Applicants will normally be at senior lecturer level or above; appointments will be made based on the context, objectives and circumstances of the needs of the role at the time and on the skills and experience of particular candidates.

The successful candidate will begin in role as soon as possible after the selection process. The post amounts to a 0.3 Full Time Equivalent appointment; this will be fully reflected in workload allocation models. It is offered on a fixed-term basis until 31 July 2029, unless extended or renewed within the Faculty’s leadership roles appointment process. At the end of their term, the role holder ceases their Director responsibilities, returning to their substantive role.

This is an opportunity to become a member of the Faculty Senior Leadership Team, working closely with the Executive Dean, Associate Dean for Research and PGR Leads in Schools. The role holder will provide strategic oversight and coordination for all postgraduate research and research training initiatives within the Faculty. The role of Director provides academic leadership for the Faculty, to develop strategies around and shape our approach to this important portfolio and inspire and engage Faculty colleagues in the delivery of these. The role is also an opportunity to gain valuable insight and experience in working with relevant central University colleagues and divisions. The appointee will represent the Faculty within and beyond the University.

The Director will receive a non-superannuable responsibility allowance of £2,000 per annum which can be paid into their salary or research account.

To apply, please complete the online application process by submitting your application via the Stonefish System by 23.59 on Monday 9 February 2026, in the following format:

• A covering letter (2 x A4 max of text) to include an expression of interest, noting why you wish to apply, your intended vision for and approach to the role, giving examples relating to the areas of responsibility listed in the job description.
• A separate document articulating how you would intend to approach the areas listed under the Person Specification, noting any relevant experience, and what professional development you would welcome in support.
• Your up-to-date CV.

Please note that references are not required. Interviews of shortlisted candidates will take place on Thursday 19 February 2026, with the panel being chaired by the Executive Dean, Prof Ed Simpson.

We are committed to promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion across the Faculty, and supporting family-friendly, flexible and agile working policies. We encourage applications from all diversity groups.

If you would like an informal discussion about the role, please contact the Associate Dean for Research Prof Ian Gregory at i.gregory@lancaster.ac.uk. Ian would be pleased to discuss with prospective applicants the vision and challenges for the role and the possibilities for career development. Prospective applicants may also wish to approach Corinna Peniston-Bird at c.m.peniston-bird@lancaster.ac.uk for insight into what it is like to be a Director and member of the Faculty Senior Leadership Team. If you have an enquiry about the application process, please contact the Faculty Resources Manager, Amanda Harrison at amanda.harrison@lancaster.ac.uk.

The University recognises and celebrates good employment practice undertaken to address all inequality in higher education whilst promoting the importance and wellbeing for all our colleagues. We warmly welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of their age, religion, gender identity or expression, race, disability or sexual orientation, and are committed to promoting diversity, and equality of opportunity.