At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead groundbreaking research and shape the future of forensic science education.
- Company: Join Northumbria University, a top-ranked research institution in a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, generous holidays, and relocation assistance.
- 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 Newton Aycliffe 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 Newton Aycliffe
✨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 on your research interests and share it with relevant groups. This not only showcases your knowledge but also positions you as a thought leader in your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with the university's community! Reach out to current faculty members at Northumbria University and discuss your ideas. Building relationships can give you 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 to what we’re looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace Professor in Forensic Science - Newcastle upon Tyne in Newton Aycliffe
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 four best since 2021. Highlight what makes them stand out and how they contribute to the field of forensic science. We want to see your impact!
Tailor Your CV: Your CV should reflect your journey in academia. Make sure to include relevant teaching experience, research funding, and publications. Tailor it to highlight how you meet the essential requirements outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important details. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
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, including methodologies, findings, and implications. Be prepared to explain how your work aligns with the university's strategic goals in forensic science.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy
Be ready to articulate your approach to teaching and mentoring. Highlight any innovative methods you've used in the classroom and how you engage students in forensic science topics.
✨Prepare for Grant Discussions
Since securing funding is crucial, come equipped with examples of successful grants you've obtained. Discuss your strategies for writing proposals and how you plan to contribute to the university's research funding efforts.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Inclusivity
Northumbria University values diversity and collaboration. Share examples of how you've worked with diverse teams or contributed to an inclusive academic environment, showcasing your commitment to these principles.