At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire and educate students in the Master of Optometry programme while engaging in innovative teaching.
- Company: Join the University of Leicester, a community dedicated to changing lives for over 100 years.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent pension, generous leave, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Informal enquiries welcome; join a diverse community committed to equity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a forward-thinking team that values teaching excellence and student satisfaction.
- Qualifications: Must be a GOC-registered optometrist with a PhD and teaching experience in optometry.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the role
We are looking for an enthusiastic academic optometrist capable of inspiring interest, curiosity and drive for learning in our students to join the School of Healthcare. This post provides the opportunity for those wanting to be instrumental in promoting academic excellence and contributing to research-inspired teaching on our undergraduate Master of Optometry programme. You will be supported in your development by an experienced and cohesive teaching team that has been developing and delivering Healthcare education at the University of Leicester for nearly 20 years.
As a teaching focused Associate Professor of Optometry, you will engage in scholarship and innovation which enhances teaching and learning within the School and further establishes its external reputation. You will be instrumental in developing the new Master of Optometry programme, working closely with the Foundation Professor, wider School Executive and external parties such as the General Optical Council, College of Optometrists and industry. You will be expected to deliver excellent student support and pursue innovation and enhancement in student learning and experience with a view to ensuring outstanding student satisfaction.
Our approach to the academic career structure encourages a balance between breadth and specialisation. We highlight the central importance of teaching and research while encouraging all colleagues to develop their contributions to, and achievements in, areas such as citizenship and leadership.
About you
To be successful in this role you will be a qualified, GOC-registered optometrist and have experience of working within a UK healthcare setting and academia. You must hold degree in Optometry in addition to a PhD in a relevant/allied subject area. Additionally, you must have teaching experience in optometry education and programme development. The successful candidate will have experience of clinical supervision of students in practice education in the NHS, private, independent or voluntary sector, in addition to expertise that complements or enhances existing programmes/strengths within the department and themes within the College.
You will have a real passion for the subject matter and be motivated to provide the very best experience for our students using your expertise and skill to ensure all reach their potential. Furthermore, you will have an enthusiasm for novel teaching approaches and a preparedness for developing an innovative and forward-thinking programme. We are looking for someone who can network and collaborate at a regional and national level, with a commitment to teaching excellence, diversity, and our departmental community. You will have a determination to support development of a market-leading course in optometry with a high-standard national reputation
Additional information
Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Professor Christian French on christian.french@leicester.ac.uk
The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the worldAs a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and InclusiveWe’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environmentVacancy terms
Full-time, Permanent #J-18808-LjbffrAssociate Professor in Optometry in Leicester employer: Leicester
The University of Leicester is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises academic excellence and innovation in teaching. As an Associate Professor in Optometry, you will benefit from a supportive team dedicated to your professional growth, alongside competitive salaries, generous leave allowances, and a commitment to staff wellbeing. Join a community that values diversity and collaboration, making a meaningful impact on the lives of students and the wider community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Professor in Optometry in Leicester
✨Connect with Local Educational Institutions
Get involved with universities and colleges in your area, especially those that offer adult continuing education programmes. Attend open days or even guest lectures to network with faculty members and find out about potential job openings before they even get advertised.
✨Leverage Professional Education Networks
Join professional networks focused on adult education, such as the Adult Learning Australia or the International Society for Technology in Education. These communities often have job boards or can point you towards opportunities at places like Leicester just waiting for the right candidate!
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
In your interviews, share your own experiences and thoughts on lifelong learning. Highlight any courses or workshops you've taken recently to demonstrate your commitment to personal development and the importance of education. This is a big plus for roles in this field!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to check out our careers page at Leicester. Applying directly through our website not only makes your application stand out but also shows you're genuinely interested in joining us. We love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Professor in Optometry in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Experience in Education:When crafting your CV for the Associate Professor in Optometry role, make sure to emphasise any relevant experience in adult or continuing education. This could be teaching credentials, training sessions you've facilitated, or programmes you’ve developed. The more specific you can be about your contributions and outcomes, the better!
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills:In the adult continuing education sector, strong communication and interpersonal skills are key. Use your cover letter to share specific examples of how you’ve worked with diverse groups or handled different learning styles. Let us see how you've engaged learners—you’re selling your teaching style here!
Connect Your Passion to Our Mission:At Leicester, we value candidates who resonate with our mission to empower lifelong learners. Make sure your cover letter reflects your passion for adult education and your alignment with our goals. A genuine connection can really make your application stand out!
Keep it Professional Yet Personable:While it’s important to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. We’re looking for someone who can connect with our learners, so a friendly, approachable tone can help convey that vibe in your written materials. Apply through our website and let us see the real you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leicester
✨Showcase Your Passion for Lifelong Learning
When interviewing for a role in adult continuing education at Leicester, it's super important to highlight your passion for lifelong learning. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to education and how you've fostered a love for learning in others – this is something hiring managers love to see!
✨Prepare for Adult Education Methodologies
Be ready to dive into your knowledge of andragogy and educational theories during the interview. Expect questions about how you would adapt your teaching styles for adult learners – think about specific strategies you’ve used in the past and be prepared to discuss how they positively impacted your students.
✨Discuss Your Experience with Diverse Learners
At Leicester, you’ll likely encounter a diverse range of adult learners, so don’t shy away from discussing your experience with different demographics. Be prepared to share your successes in engaging learners from varied backgrounds, and how your approach has adapted to meet their unique needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Ability to Collaborate
Given that this is a full-time role, teamwork will be essential. Be ready to talk about your experiences working in collaborative settings, whether it be with fellow educators, administrators, or community partners. Highlight specific projects where your collaborative efforts contributed to successful educational outcomes.
