At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead research on global risk and resilience, teach and assess MPhil students.
- Company: Join the University of Cambridge's Institute for Technology and Humanity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, academic environment, and opportunities for impactful research.
- Why this job: Make a difference in understanding risks that could impact humanity's future.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant field and experience in teaching and research.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for significant academic and societal impact.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Institute for Technology and Humanity (ITH) seeks to appoint an Assistant Professor in Global Risk and Resilience, who will join the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk (CSER). The start would be as soon as possible, at the latest on 1 September 2026.
The role holder will lead research relevant to the study of global risk and resilience, contributing to teaching, examining, assessment and admissions for the popular interdisciplinary Masters (MPhil) in Global Risk and Resilience, and contribute fully to academic administration. CSER has significant strengths in many areas of existential and global catastrophic risk studies, a position which has been enhanced by several recent appointments. We are now seeking to appoint an additional Assistant Professor who will either bring a new area to the Centre or have significant synergies with existing research areas.
Relevant specialist skills include, but are not limited to: risk identification and assessment; systems modelling and complexity science; participatory methods such as scenario exercises and horizon scanning; and policy for risk mitigation. Likely areas of expertise include: future technological developments with transformative potential; global systems breakdown; disaster risk management; or international security.
CSER produces world-leading research on risks that could lead to human extinction or civilisational collapse. It is also a hub for academics, technologists and policymakers, where the team is expected to work across theoretical and practical specialisms and to generate impact outside academia. The new MPhil, in which the role holder will play a key role, will help define best research practices and credential new cohorts of researchers and practitioners. It will build a larger and more impactful community, taking this emerging field into new sectors and geographies.
Responsibilities:
- Design, prepare and deliver core and relevant specialist MPhil modules
- Supervise and examine MPhil students, and respond to student feedback
- Conduct and publish original research of international reach and significance
- Develop and maintain expert networks inside and outside academia
- Contribute to the department's educational strategy
Qualifications:
- A PhD in a relevant field, with the potential to generate internationally recognised research and experience of designing and delivering research projects
- Evidence of flexibility and range in teaching at an undergraduate or postgraduate level
- Evidence of excellence in the delivery of taught courses, through lecturing, assessment, supervision and course design
- Ability and enthusiasm to take a leadership role in an interdisciplinary team and engage with a range of stakeholders
The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance. The closing date for applications is Sunday 8 February 2026. Interviews are planned for the week commencing 23 March 2026, subject to change.
If you have any questions about this vacancy, contact Sonja Amadae at recruitment@cser.cam.ac.uk. For questions about the process, please contact the Schools HR Team on sahhr@admin.cam.ac.uk.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Assistant Professor in Global Risk and Resilience (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: University of Cambridge
Contact Detail:
University of Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Professor in Global Risk and Resilience (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the Institute for Technology and Humanity. A friendly chat can give us insights into the culture and expectations, plus it might just get your name on their radar.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your research chops! Prepare a short presentation or a portfolio of your work that highlights your expertise in global risk and resilience. This will help us see how you can contribute to CSER's mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for a dynamic interview! Brush up on your teaching methods and be prepared to discuss how you’d engage students in the MPhil programme. We want to see your passion for education and research!
✨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 connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Professor in Global Risk and Resilience (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Assistant Professor in Global Risk and Resilience. We want to see how you can contribute to our Centre for the Study of Existential Risk!
Showcase Your Research: Don’t hold back on sharing your research achievements! We’re looking for someone who can conduct and publish original research, so make sure to include any relevant publications or projects that demonstrate your expertise.
Engage with Teaching Experience: Since teaching is a big part of this role, let us know about your teaching philosophy and any experience you have in delivering courses. We love seeing evidence of flexibility and excellence in teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, we’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Cambridge
✨Know Your Research
Make sure you’re well-versed in your own research and how it aligns with the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how they can contribute to the ongoing work at CSER.
✨Engage with Interdisciplinary Approaches
Since this role involves working across various fields, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with different disciplines. Highlight your experience in participatory methods or systems modelling to show your versatility.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions about the MPhil programme and CSER’s future directions. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the role is the right fit for you.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy
Be ready to discuss your teaching style and how you engage students. Share specific examples of how you’ve designed courses or supervised students, as this will demonstrate your commitment to education and student success.