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- Tasks: Teach and support students in Contemporary Art Practice through lectures, workshops, and one-to-one tutorials.
- Company: Join the Royal College of Art, a global leader in art and design education.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with opportunities for research, collaboration, and professional development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of contemporary art while engaging with passionate students and innovative practices.
- Qualifications: A relevant degree, teaching experience at postgraduate level, and a commitment to high-quality education are essential.
- Other info: This role offers a unique chance to influence critical art practice and engage with diverse communities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Tutor (Research) – Contemporary Art Practice
School of Arts & Humanities, Royal College of Art
Grade 9 | 0.5 FTE | Permanent
The Royal College of Art (RCA) is the world\’s leading university of art and design, dedicated to advancing education, research and knowledge exchange in the creative and cultural industries. We are seeking an outstanding practitioner and researcher in Contemporary Art Practice (CAP) to join the School of Arts & Humanities as a Tutor (Research). This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a globally influential programme at the forefront of critical art practice, research, and pedagogy.
About the School of Arts & Humanities
The School provides transformative learning experiences across postgraduate degrees from MA to PhD, integrating traditional and contemporary studio-based practices with innovative approaches in the humanities, fine and applied arts. We foster a culture of intellectual curiosity, critical debate and peer-to-peer learning, delivered by a community of expert researchers and practitioners. Our students collaborate across the School, across the RCA, and with London\’s leading cultural institutions, developing work that responds to contemporary global, social and ethical dynamics. Graduates from the School go on to lead influential careers internationally, shaping creative practice, cultural institutions, and critical discourse.
About Contemporary Art Practice
The CAP programme is recognised as the world\’s leading postgraduate fine art course, known for its post-medium, critically engaged approach to making and receiving art. It offers three distinct pathways-Critical Practice, Moving Image, and Public Sphere-within which students explore diverse media and approaches including installation, film, performance, publications, sound works, VR, writing, and techno-aesthetics.
Our students are deeply engaged with urgent global questions concerning the environment, society, politics and culture. They expand the traditional role of the artist, working as activists, publishers, educators, urban researchers and community organisers. The programme provides a discursive and experimental environment through tutorials, crits, seminars and lectures, encouraging students to situate their practice within the wider contemporary world.
The Role
We are seeking a dynamic academic with a strong research profile and an enthusiasm for teaching to contribute to the ongoing development of CAP and the wider School. You will be expected to:
- Deliver research-led teaching through lectures, workshops, seminars and crits.
- Provide academic, pastoral and technical support to students, including one-to-one tutorials and feedback on their work.
- Contribute to curriculum design and the development of innovative approaches to teaching and assessment.
- Engage in the organisation of exhibitions, events, and field trips.
- Supervise postgraduate academic work, including at Master\’s and doctoral level.
- Produce high-quality research outputs (at least 3* REF standard) and contribute to the School\’s research culture.
- Seek funding opportunities and collaborate with colleagues on research and knowledge exchange projects.
- Participate in student recruitment, external engagement and industry collaborations to promote the RCA and its students.
About You
The successful candidate will hold a first degree in a relevant field and demonstrate:
- A strong commitment to high-quality teaching and fostering inclusive learning environments.
- Experience of devising, teaching, and assessing courses at postgraduate level.
- Evidence of ability, or clear potential, to produce research outputs of at least 3* REF quality.
- The ability to supervise academic work at Master\’s and/or doctoral level.
- A commitment to equality of opportunity and to working collaboratively with diverse communities.
A doctorate in a relevant field, or equivalent professional or artistic achievement, is desirable. If supervising research students, you should already have, or be willing to complete, research supervision training within two years of appointment.
Join Us
This is an opportunity to shape the future of contemporary art practice within one of the world\’s most influential postgraduate environments. If you are an artist, academic, and researcher who thrives on collaboration, critical debate, and working with emerging practitioners, we would be delighted to hear from you. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Tutor (Research) Contemporary Art Practice (0.5fte, Permanent Post) employer: Royal College of Art
Contact Detail:
Royal College of Art Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Tutor (Research) Contemporary Art Practice (0.5fte, Permanent Post)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current and former staff at the Royal College of Art. Engaging with them can provide insights into the culture and expectations of the institution, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the Contemporary Art Practice programme and its distinct pathways. Understanding the nuances of Critical Practice, Moving Image, and Public Sphere will help you articulate how your expertise aligns with their vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your research interests and how they relate to contemporary global issues. The role requires a strong research profile, so being able to connect your work to the broader context of art practice will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to inclusive teaching practices. Be ready to share examples of how you've fostered diverse learning environments in your previous roles, as this is a key aspect of the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Tutor (Research) Contemporary Art Practice (0.5fte, Permanent Post)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in contemporary art practice, teaching, and research. Emphasise any previous roles that involved curriculum design or student supervision, as these are key aspects of the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for contemporary art and education. Discuss how your background aligns with the RCA's mission and the specific requirements of the Tutor (Research) position. Be sure to mention any innovative teaching methods you have employed.
Showcase Your Research: Include details about your research outputs, especially those that meet the 3* REF standard. Highlight any projects that demonstrate your engagement with global, social, and ethical dynamics in contemporary art.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Think about how you would respond to questions regarding your teaching philosophy, experience with diverse communities, and your approach to fostering inclusive learning environments. This preparation will help you articulate your vision during interviews.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal College of Art
✨Showcase Your Research Passion
Make sure to highlight your research interests and how they align with the Contemporary Art Practice programme. Discuss any relevant projects or publications that demonstrate your commitment to advancing knowledge in this field.
✨Engage with Teaching Philosophy
Be prepared to discuss your teaching philosophy and how you foster inclusive learning environments. Share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged students in critical debate and peer-to-peer learning.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Spirit
Emphasise your experience in collaboration, whether it's with colleagues, students, or external partners. The role requires working closely with diverse communities, so showcasing your ability to work collaboratively will be key.
✨Prepare for Curriculum Development Discussion
Think about innovative approaches to curriculum design and assessment that you could bring to the role. Be ready to share ideas on how to enhance the learning experience for postgraduate students in the arts.
