At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and research in criminology, inspiring students and contributing to impactful projects.
- Company: Join the University of Sheffield's renowned School of Law with a diverse and inclusive community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 41 days annual leave, flexible working, and generous family-friendly policies.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth and networking within a global academic community.
- Why this job: Make a difference in criminology while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in criminology or related field, proven teaching ability, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 50000 € per year.
Lecturer in Criminology (Maternity cover)
We have an exciting opportunity in the School of Law at the University of Sheffield for excellent researchers and inspiring teachers. We are looking to recruit a maternity leave cover for a Lecturer in Criminology (Fixed term for 12 months) from 1 February 2026. If appointed, you would play an important part in our team and contribute to research‑led teaching. We seek applicants with interests in all areas of criminology and/or criminal justice, who share our commitment to collegiality and inclusivity.
Criminology has a long and rich tradition at Sheffield, with its Centre for Criminological Research (CCR) established more than 30 years ago as one of the first four criminology research centres in the UK. The CCR welcomes staff and PGR members from a range of disciplines across the University. Information on CCR’s ongoing work can be found here.
The School of Law enjoys an international reputation for excellence in research, for the expertise of its staff, and the achievements of its graduates. We have a diverse team which aspires to address global challenges and our vision is to advance the interdisciplinary understanding of law, socio‑legal studies, and criminology. We enjoy a global network of research and teaching links and all undergraduate students are given the opportunity to spend a year abroad with one of our partners. The School’s civic engagement activities and pro‑bono work connect it with the city of Sheffield, and with partners in the commercial, public and third sectors, nationally and internationally.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Research
- Determine research objectives, and initiate and implement a programme of research that enhances the international standing of the School.
- Conduct and disseminate innovative research to an internationally excellent standard.
- Undertake research and knowledge exchange activities with the potential to have demonstrable effects on society, culture, public policy or services, the law, health, the environment or quality of life, beyond academia.
- Involvement in professional activities and with national and international bodies.
Education
- Design, develop and deliver teaching modules across a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including coordinating team teaching to ensure high quality delivery; preparing teaching material, communicating subject matter and encouraging critical discourse and rational thinking; observing and reacting to student interventions; responding to questions outside class times and to contingencies in course delivery.
- Carry out assessment for modules, including designing assessment instruments and criteria; marking assessments, ensuring adequate moderation; providing written/oral feedback; and collating and providing final assessments of students.
- Supervise and assess UG and PG dissertation students and doctoral students.
- Carry out module evaluation, including facilitating student feedback; reflecting on own teaching design and delivery; and implementing ideas for improving own performance.
Leadership and Administration
- Provide pastoral and academic support for students by acting as an Academic Tutor.
- Contribute to the life of the School, Faculty and wider University community by taking on leadership roles and responsibilities where required, and contributing to committee work and the development of relevant policies.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
- Make ethical decisions in your role, modelling inclusive and collegiate behaviour, embedding the University’s sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible, and furthering the University’s EDI objectives.
- Any other duties, commensurate with the grade of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone is respected and feels they belong. Even if your past experience doesn\'t match perfectly with this role\'s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Essential Criteria
- Have or be working towards a PhD in a relevant subject area (or have equivalent experience).
- Proven teaching ability, ideally with a recognised teaching qualification.
- Evidence of research recognised internationally in terms of originality, significance and rigour.
- Experience of developing and maintaining a network of contacts in your area of research.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to liaise effectively with colleagues, students and external stakeholders.
- Experience of taking principal responsibility for projects, as well as working collaboratively and effectively as a part of a team.
- Proven ability to work to and meet deadlines.
- An understanding of and demonstrable commitment to promoting and embedding equality, diversity & inclusion principles and practices and demonstration of capacity to meet the educational needs of a diverse group.
- Demonstrate the potential to write and submit high quality proposals for funded research.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience of designing, leading and delivering modules to a high standard.
- Experience of supervising and assessing the work of taught student research projects/dissertation.
Salary
£48,822 to £58,225 with the potential to progress to £65,509 per annum through sustained exceptional contribution.
Work arrangement
Full‑time.
Duration
Fixed term, 12 months.
Line manager
TBC.
Direct reports
None.
Contact
Professor Richard Kirkham, Head of the School of Law: r.m.kirkham@sheffield.ac.uk.
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place towards the end of November 2025. This will consist of a 10 minute presentation to School of Law colleagues, followed by a 15 minute Question & Answer session, an interview (30‑40 min) and an opportunity to meet more informally with colleagues from the School of Law and tour Bartolome House. As part of the application process, you will also be asked to share a research output, which will be internally assessed for its REF potential. The outcome of this assessment, feedback on your presentation from those who attend and the interview will be used in the decision‑making process. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage at least one week before the interviews. Contact law-hr@sheffield.ac.uk if you require any reasonable adjustments.
Benefits
- A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities.
- Generous pension scheme.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes.
- A range of generous family‑friendly policies, including paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies, support for those going through menopause, paid time off and support for fertility treatment, and more.
We are a Disability Confident Employer
If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Our website
https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/law
Lecturer in Criminology (Maternity cover) in Sheffield employer: The University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises inclusivity and collegiality within the School of Law. With a strong commitment to research-led teaching, employees benefit from generous annual leave, flexible working opportunities, and a variety of staff networks that foster personal and professional development. The university's dedication to employee growth, alongside its rich tradition in criminology and community engagement, makes it an attractive place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lecturer in Criminology (Maternity cover) in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the University of Sheffield, especially those in the School of Law. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that presentation! Since you'll be doing a 10-minute talk, make sure you know your research inside out. Practise in front of friends or colleagues to get comfortable with your delivery.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for teaching! During the interview, share specific examples of how you've engaged students in the past. Highlight your commitment to inclusivity and how you adapt your teaching style to meet diverse needs.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our community at Sheffield.
We think you need these skills to ace Lecturer in Criminology (Maternity cover) in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what they're looking for.
Showcase Your Research:Since this role involves research-led teaching, don’t forget to include details about your research interests and any relevant publications. This is your chance to shine a light on your academic achievements!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. Remember, clarity is key to making a good impression!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people and shows your enthusiasm for joining our team at Sheffield!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest research and trends in criminology. Brush up on key theories, recent studies, and any relevant legislation. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your passion for the subject.
✨Engage with the Team
During your interview, remember that it’s a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the School of Law and its initiatives. This shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of their community and contributes to a collegial atmosphere.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Style
Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy and methods. Consider preparing a brief outline of a module you’d like to teach, highlighting how you would engage students and encourage critical thinking. This can really set you apart!
✨Demonstrate Inclusivity
Since the role emphasises equality, diversity, and inclusion, be prepared to share examples of how you’ve promoted these values in your previous roles. This could be through your teaching, research, or community engagement activities.
