At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and mentor students in Philosophy, focusing on Ethics and Moral Philosophy.
- Company: Pembroke College, part of a vibrant academic community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, research allowances, and access to college meals.
- Other info: Opportunity for career development with mentorship from senior academics.
- Why this job: Develop your teaching skills while engaging in meaningful research and student interaction.
- Qualifications: Expertise in Ethics and related philosophical areas preferred.
The predicted salary is between 14088 - 15558 £ per year.
Pembroke College wishes to appoint a College Lecturer in Philosophy, from 1 October 2026 to 31 August 2027, with the possibility of a further one-year extension. This is a fixed-term career development position intended to provide academics with the opportunity to develop their teaching and administrative skills at the same time as pursuing their research.
We welcome applicants with expertise in Ethics, Practical Ethics, and Moral Philosophy. We have an engaged and active Philosophy community at Pembroke. You will be mentored by senior academics and work alongside a number of college lecturers and researchers in the College, including Professor Guy Kahane and Professor James Read.
All of our teaching is in small groups (tutorials of two/three students and classes of up to six). You will be required to teach the following courses to undergraduate students:
- For First Year Students: Moral Philosophy (a first-year course on Mill’s Utilitarianism).
- For Undergraduate Students more generally: Ethics and Practical Ethics.
It would be an advantage if applicants were also able to teach one or more of the following subjects: Aesthetics, Kant, Philosophy of Mind, Philosophy of Cognitive Science, and Wittgenstein.
You will be required to provide teaching for an average of five hours’ contact time per week during the eight weeks of Oxford’s three terms. You will be expected to set weekly essays and provide timely feedback, set and mark College examinations, write end-of-term reports, and participate in undergraduate admissions. You will also take on administrative and pastoral responsibilities, including attending student review meetings, participating in College Open Days and access activities, organising undergraduate events, and acting as a graduate advisor if requested.
You will be expected to be actively engaged in research and to agree and participate in a career development plan with the support of the College.
The salary will be in the range of £14,088–£15,558 per annum depending on experience and qualifications. You will have access to research and teaching allowances, use of a room for teaching, membership of the USS pension scheme, and an entitlement to take three lunches or dinners in College per week. The salary figures are 2025–26 rates and are subject to an annual uplift.
Applicants should submit their Curriculum Vitae and a covering letter electronically to the Academic HR Officer (academichr@pmb.ox.ac.uk) by 9am (UK BST) on Monday 15 June 2026. Please include the names and contact details of two referees who we can contact if you are shortlisted for interview.
College Lecturer (Career Development) in Philosophy in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
Pembroke College is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative environment for academics to thrive in their teaching and research pursuits. With a strong emphasis on mentorship from senior faculty and a vibrant Philosophy community, employees benefit from professional development opportunities and a unique work culture that values small group teaching and active engagement with students. Located in the historic city of Oxford, the College provides access to rich academic resources and a collegial atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in higher education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land College Lecturer (Career Development) in Philosophy in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in academia, attend philosophy events, and engage with fellow lecturers. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your teaching philosophy and how it aligns with Pembroke's values. Be ready to discuss your approach to ethics and practical ethics, as well as how you plan to engage students in small group settings.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your research interests! Make sure to highlight any relevant projects or publications during your discussions. This will demonstrate your commitment to both teaching and research, which is key for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their applications.
We think you need these skills to ace College Lecturer (Career Development) in Philosophy in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your teaching experience, research interests, and any relevant skills that align with the role. Keep it concise and tailored to the position at Pembroke College.
Personalise Your Cover Letter:Don’t just send a generic cover letter! Address it to the right person and mention specific aspects of the job description that excite you. Show us why you're a great fit for our Philosophy community and how you can contribute.
Showcase Your Teaching Style:We want to know how you engage students in small group settings. Share examples of your teaching methods and how you provide feedback. This will help us see your approach to tutorials and classes, especially in Ethics and Moral Philosophy.
Follow Application Instructions:Make sure you submit your application through our website and include all required documents, like your CV and cover letter. Don’t forget to list your referees! Following these steps shows us you pay attention to detail.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Philosophy
Make sure you brush up on key concepts in Ethics, Practical Ethics, and Moral Philosophy. Be prepared to discuss Mill’s Utilitarianism and how it applies to contemporary issues. This will show your depth of knowledge and passion for the subject.
✨Engage with the Community
Familiarise yourself with Pembroke College's Philosophy community. Mention any specific events or initiatives they have that resonate with you. This demonstrates your genuine interest in becoming part of their academic environment.
✨Prepare for Teaching Scenarios
Since you'll be teaching small groups, think about how you would approach a tutorial. Prepare a mini-lesson or discussion points on a relevant topic. This will help you showcase your teaching style and ability to engage students.
✨Show Your Research Ambitions
Be ready to discuss your research interests and how they align with the college's goals. Outline your career development plan and how you envision contributing to both teaching and research at Pembroke.
