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- Tasks: Shape the future of forensic science through research and teaching at Northumbria University.
- Company: Join a leading research-intensive university in Newcastle upon Tyne.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holidays, and relocation assistance.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation in forensic science with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Qualifications: PhD or equivalent experience in forensic science and a passion for teaching and research.
- Other info: Supportive culture with opportunities for academic leadership and career development.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
This is an exceptional moment to join Northumbria University's forensic science community. We are recruiting Associate 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, contribute to new research initiatives, and support 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:
- Contribute to and support research strategy, and secure grants in your area of expertise
- Contribute to degree programme development and help shape research facilities and initiatives
- Support and mentor colleagues in the 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 academics with a growing reputation who can contribute to research leadership, teaching excellence, 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 growing track record of excellent 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.
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. Discover more about us. With over 37,000 students from over 140 countries, we offer world-leading research, award-winning partnerships, and an outstanding student experience. We empower our exceptional staff, promoting a positive work-life balance and offering great benefits, including excellent pension schemes, flexible working, generous holiday entitlement and more.
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.
Associate Professor in Forensic Science - Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Northumbria University Newcastle
Contact Detail:
Northumbria University Newcastle Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Professor in Forensic Science - Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current faculty members or alumni from Northumbria University. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the department and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into the latest research in forensic science. Show us that you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about shaping the future of the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your teaching style! Bring along examples of your teaching materials or methods. We want to see how you engage students and make learning exciting.
✨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 make your application stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Professor in Forensic Science - Newcastle upon Tyne
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 Research Achievements: When listing your research outputs, pick your top four since 2021 that best demonstrate your expertise. Highlight any significant contributions or innovations you've made in forensic science to catch our eye!
Tailor Your CV: Don't just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect your relevant experience in forensic science and teaching. Include specific examples of your contributions to academic or professional teaching and any leadership roles you've held.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northumbria University Newcastle
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and developments in forensic science. Familiarise yourself with the specific areas mentioned in the job description, like forensic genomics and digital investigation. This will show that you're not just qualified, but genuinely interested in contributing to their research initiatives.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous teaching and research experiences in detail. Highlight any successful projects or grants you've secured, as well as your approach to mentoring students and colleagues. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can support the next generation of academics.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Understand Northumbria University's strategic goals and how they align with your own career aspirations. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their vision of building a leading forensic science research group. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are invested in their mission.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about their current research projects, the facilities available, or how they envision the role evolving. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the environment is the right fit for you.