At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative research and shape the future of forensic science education.
- Company: Join Northumbria University, a top-ranked research institution in a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holidays, and relocation assistance available.
- Why this job: Be part of a strategic expansion and make a real impact in forensic science.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and proven track record in research and teaching.
- Other info: Access state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive, inclusive culture.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
This is an exceptional moment to join Northumbria University's forensic science community. We are recruiting Professors as part of a strategic expansion that will see up to 10 new appointments across all career stages, building critical mass and research capacity at a time of significant institutional investment.
You will help shape the future direction of forensic science research and teaching, lead new research initiatives, and mentor the next generation of academics—all within a newly-formed School with state-of-the-art facilities and strong institutional support.
Why This Role, Why Now
The School of Geography and Natural Science is at an inflection point. Following major institutional investment and strategic reorganisation, we are building one of the UK's leading forensic science research groups. This is a rare opportunity to:
- Lead research strategy and secure major grants in your area of expertise
- Shape new degree programmes and research facilities from the ground up
- Build and mentor a growing team—we welcome group hire applications
- Access dedicated facilities including a Crime Scene House, in-house multi-omics capabilities (genomics, metabolomics, proteomics), high-performance computing for bioinformatics, and expert technical support
What We’re Looking For
For these roles we seek established academics who can provide intellectual leadership, strategic research vision, and mentorship while supporting excellent teaching and external engagement. We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:
- Professional forensic science practice—streamlined forensic reporting, expert witness testimony, and courtroom experience
- Forensic analysis and interpretation—biological, chemical, digital, or trace evidence
- Allied disciplines—forensic genomics, metabolomics, proteomics, environmental forensics, wildlife crime, or digital investigation
This list is not exhaustive. We encourage applications from candidates whose work complements or extends our existing strengths.
Essential Requirements
- A first degree in a relevant discipline and specialist knowledge gained through a PhD or equivalent professional practice
- Experience contributing to high-quality academic or professional teaching, learning, and assessment in forensic science or related disciplines
- A significant track record of world-leading research, doctoral supervision, high-quality publications, and income generation
- Commitment to supporting an excellent and inclusive student experience
What We Offer
- Academic leadership opportunities in a growing School during a period of strategic investment
- Competitive salary
- Access to research funding, mentorship programmes, and career development support
- State-of-the-art facilities including dedicated Crime Scene House, multi-omics laboratories, and high-performance computing
- Supportive, collegial culture with Athena SWAN Bronze award and commitment to diversity and inclusion
- Excellent pension schemes, flexible working arrangements, generous holiday entitlement
- Relocation assistance available for successful candidates—we welcome applications from the UK and internationally
About the School
The School of Geography and Natural Science is a vibrant, research-intensive environment with 130 academic staff, 40 technical staff, 60 postdoctoral researchers, 150 PhD students, and 3,000 taught students. Our research strengths span Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, Cell and Molecular Sciences, Chemistry and Forensic Sciences, Environmental Sciences, and Human Geography. We lead four of the University’s nine peaks of research excellence and rank 2nd in the UK for research power in Geography and Environmental Studies (REF 2021).
Our extensive laboratory estate includes facilities for analytical and synthetic chemistry, molecular biology, genomics, mass spectrometry, chromatography, materials analysis, and a microscopy and bio-imaging suite. We are partners in the Northern Eye cryo-electron microscopy facility and host the Research England-funded Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment.
How to Apply
Click 'Apply Now' and submit:
- A covering letter explaining your interest and fit for the role
- Full CV including research and education statements
- List of research funding (with grant title, funder, amount, and your role)
- Your four best research outputs since 2021
- PDFs of your top two publications
Informal Enquiries
For informal discussions about this role or group hire opportunities, please contact Professor Andy Shepherd, Head of School. We welcome applications from the UK and across the world.
About the University
Join Northumbria University, a research-intensive institution unlocking potential and changing lives locally and globally. Named Times Higher Education's University of the Year in 2022 and Modern University of the Year in 2025, we rank top 25 in the UK for research power. With over 37,000 students from over 140 countries, we offer world-leading research, award-winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience.
Our Northumbria Values, co-created by our team, define who we are: Academic Excellence, Innovation, Inclusivity, Collaboration, and Ambition. Our Behaviours shape our work culture: We listen and learn, support one another, respect everyone, trust each other, and are bold.
Based in Newcastle upon Tyne and London, we are an on-campus organisation and offer flexible hours and location where the role allows. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusivity, holding numerous awards for gender and race equality, disability confidence, and research excellence.
We also hold the HR Excellence in Research award for implementing the concordat supporting the career Development of Researchers and are members of the Euraxess initiative to deliver information and support to professional researchers. The University has implemented a range of flexible working arrangements, and we are happy to explore candidate requirements as part of the recruitment process.
Apply now and join a community committed to transforming society and the economy.
Professor in Forensic Science - Newcastle upon Tyne in High Etherley employer: Northumbria University Newcastle
Contact Detail:
Northumbria University Newcastle Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Professor in Forensic Science - Newcastle upon Tyne in High Etherley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars related to forensic science. It's a great way to meet potential colleagues and get your name out there in the academic community.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a presentation or a talk about your research interests and achievements. This can be a fantastic way to engage with others and demonstrate your passion for forensic science.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t shy away from informal chats! Reach out to current faculty members at Northumbria University for a coffee or a virtual chat. They can provide insights into the culture and expectations of the department.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to tailor your application perfectly.
We think you need these skills to ace Professor in Forensic Science - Newcastle upon Tyne in High Etherley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why you're excited about the role and how your experience aligns with what we're looking for. Be genuine and let your passion for forensic science come through.
Showcase Your CV: When it comes to your CV, we want to see your academic journey and achievements. Highlight your research, teaching experience, and any significant contributions to the field of forensic science. Keep it clear and concise!
Highlight Your Research Funding: Don't forget to include a list of your research funding! This shows us your ability to secure grants and your active involvement in the research community. Be specific about your role in each project.
Select Your Best Publications: Choose your top two publications wisely! These should reflect your best work and demonstrate your expertise in forensic science. PDFs are a must, so make sure they're ready to go when you apply through our website.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumbria University Newcastle
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss your research in detail, especially how it aligns with the university's strategic goals. Be prepared to explain your methodologies and findings clearly, as well as how they contribute to the field of forensic science.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy
Be ready to articulate your approach to teaching and mentoring. Highlight any innovative teaching methods you've used and how you engage students in forensic science. This is crucial for a role that involves shaping new degree programmes.
✨Prepare for Grant Discussions
Since securing research funding is a key part of the role, come equipped with examples of successful grants you've obtained. Discuss your strategies for writing proposals and how you plan to attract funding for future projects.
✨Engage with Institutional Values
Familiarise yourself with the university's values and behaviours. During the interview, demonstrate how your own values align with theirs, particularly around inclusivity and collaboration, which are essential in a diverse academic environment.