At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and research various philosophy subjects at a prestigious college.
- Company: Somerville College, University of Oxford - a leading centre for philosophy.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, housing allowance, free meals, and research funding.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth with potential for a third-year extension.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant academic community and shape the future of philosophy education.
- Qualifications: Strong background in philosophy and teaching experience.
The predicted salary is between 36340 - 36340 € per year.
As part of our goal to develop and strengthen both the teaching and research capabilities of Somerville College and the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Oxford, and contributing to maintaining Oxford as a leading centre for teaching and research in the subject, we are inviting applications for a Fixed-Term Fellowship in Philosophy.
The successful candidate must be willing and able to teach the following subjects:
- General Philosophy
- Introductory Logic
- Moral Philosophy
- Knowledge and Reality (FHS)
- Ethics (FHS)
In addition, the successful candidate should be willing and able to teach at least two of the following FHS papers:
- Philosophy of Mind
- Philosophy of Logic and Language
- Aesthetics
- Practical Ethics
- Feminist Theory
- Early Modern Philosophy
The ability to teach additional FHS papers is welcome.
In return, we are offering the opportunity for continuing research to an outstanding academic, at an early stage of their career. The successful candidate will be elected to a 2-year Fellowship from 1 September 2026, with the appointment held on a probationary basis in the first year. The Fellowship may be extended for a third year.
The stipend is on the first point of the recommended scale for Fixed-Term fellowships in the Senior Tutors’ Committee register of payments. This is currently set at £36,340 per annum. Salaries are taxable and are reviewed annually for cost of living. The salary will also be subject to annual increments in addition to any cost-of-living increases that may be applied. The position is superannuable under the University’s Superannuation scheme.
The following benefits also apply:
- An annual housing allowance of £12,642, which is taxable and pensionable
- An annual Tutors’ allowance of £3,661
- Full USS (pension) benefits
- Free lunches and dinners with the Senior Common Room throughout the year except during brief periods when the kitchens are closed.
- An entertainment allowance (currently £570p.a.)
- A tax-free book allowance of £502p.a.
- The ability to apply for reimbursement of up to £2,452 per year of research-related expenditure.
We will also look to provide you with a room in college which is suitable for teaching and study.
For further details and information on the application process please download a copy of the further particulars from the link below: Further particulars - fixed-term College Fellowship in Philosophy. The closing date for completed applications is noon (UK time) on 24 June 2026.
College Fellowship in Philosophy (Fixed-Term) in Oxford employer: Somerville College Recruitment
Somerville College at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional environment for early-career academics seeking to advance their teaching and research in Philosophy. With a commitment to fostering intellectual growth, the college provides generous benefits including a competitive stipend, housing allowance, and support for research activities, all within the vibrant academic community of Oxford. This role not only allows for meaningful engagement with students but also positions you at the heart of one of the world's leading centres for philosophical inquiry.
Contact Detail:
Somerville College Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land College Fellowship in Philosophy (Fixed-Term) in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your academic contacts and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. They might have leads or even recommend you directly, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your teaching philosophy and how it aligns with the college's values. Be ready to discuss your approach to the subjects you'll be teaching, as well as any innovative ideas you have for engaging students.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your research interests! Make sure to highlight how your research can contribute to the college's goals. This is your chance to demonstrate that you're not just a teacher but also an active contributor to the academic community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace College Fellowship in Philosophy (Fixed-Term) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Stuff:Make sure you really understand the subjects you're applying to teach. Brush up on General Philosophy, Logic, and Moral Philosophy, as well as any additional FHS papers you might want to cover. We want to see your passion for the subject shine through!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your teaching experience and research interests that align with the Fellowship. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for Somerville College and the Faculty of Philosophy.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your materials and ensures you don’t miss any important details. Plus, we love seeing applications come in directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Somerville College Recruitment
✨Know Your Philosophy
Make sure you brush up on the key areas of philosophy you'll be teaching, like General Philosophy and Moral Philosophy. Familiarise yourself with the latest debates and theories in these subjects, as well as any specific texts that might come up during your interview.
✨Prepare for Teaching Demonstrations
Since teaching is a big part of this role, think about how you would present a topic from the syllabus. Prepare a mini-lesson or discussion point that showcases your teaching style and ability to engage students. Practising this with friends or colleagues can help you refine your approach.
✨Show Your Research Passion
Be ready to discuss your research interests and how they align with the college's goals. Highlight any projects you've worked on and how they contribute to the field of philosophy. This shows you're not just a teacher but also an active contributor to philosophical discourse.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the college's philosophy department, its research initiatives, and how they support their fellows. This demonstrates your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
