At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and research in human geography, focusing on cultural geography and innovative methods.
- Company: Join a leading university with a vibrant academic community.
- Benefits: 38 days annual leave, excellent pension scheme, childcare services, and travel discounts.
- Other info: Fixed term until 2029, full-time role starting September 2026.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in teaching and research at a world-class institution.
- Qualifications: PhD/DPhil in Human Geography or related field, with strong teaching and research skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
The School of Geography and the Environment (SoGE), in association with Mansfield College, seeks an outstanding Departmental Lecturer in Human Geography to provide cover during Professor Derek McCormack's period as Head of School. This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the world's leading centres for geographical research and teaching, within a vibrant and intellectually collaborative academic community.
We are particularly interested in candidates with strong teaching and research interests in cultural geography and related approaches within human geography. Preference may be given to applicants whose research complements the work of Professor McCormack.
The successful candidate will contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching across core areas of human geography, including cultural geography, geographical thought, qualitative methods, and field-based teaching. The role combines responsibilities within both SoGE and Mansfield College. You will deliver lectures, tutorials, seminars, and field teaching; supervise undergraduate dissertations and graduate students; contribute to assessment and admissions; and support the wider academic and pastoral life of the School and College.
Alongside teaching, you will maintain an active research profile through publications, conference presentations, and the development of research funding applications. We are seeking a candidate who, at the time of appointment, holds a PhD/DPhil in Human Geography, preferably Cultural Geography, or a closely related field, and can demonstrate high-quality teaching, a developing research profile, and a commitment to inclusive and supportive academic environments. Please note that if you are nearing completion, you will not be able to take up the post until your PhD has been awarded.
Candidates wishing to discuss the post informally may contact Professor Derek McCormack: derek.mccormack@ouce.ox.ac.uk.
This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to outstanding teaching and innovative research in human geography within a world-leading university environment.
What We Offer:
- An excellent contributory pension scheme
- 38 days annual leave
- A comprehensive range of childcare services
- Family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
School of Geography and the Environment, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY. This post is fixed term until 30 September 2029 and offered on a full-time basis (1 FTE / 37.5 hours). The role is available to start from 1 September 2026.
Departmental Lecturer in Human Geography in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
The School of Geography and the Environment at Oxford University offers a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment for the Departmental Lecturer in Human Geography role. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, employees benefit from a supportive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation, alongside generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, an excellent pension scheme, and various family-friendly policies. This position not only allows for impactful teaching and research but also provides ample opportunities for professional growth within one of the world's leading centres for geographical studies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Departmental Lecturer in Human Geography in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the School of Geography and the Environment. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the department and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by diving deep into their recent research and teaching methods. Show us that you’re not just a candidate, but someone who’s genuinely excited about contributing to their academic community.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your teaching style! If you get the chance, share a mini-lecture or a teaching demo. This is your moment to shine and show how you engage students in cultural geography.
✨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 Departmental Lecturer in Human Geography in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your teaching and research interests in cultural geography. We want to see how your background aligns with the role and the work of Professor McCormack.
Showcase Your Teaching Experience:Don’t forget to include specific examples of your teaching experience, especially in core areas like qualitative methods and field-based teaching. We love seeing how you engage students and contribute to their learning.
Highlight Your Research Profile:We’re keen on candidates with an active research profile, so be sure to mention your publications, conference presentations, and any funding applications you've been involved in. This shows us you're serious about contributing to the academic community.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Good luck!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Geography
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and research in human geography, especially cultural geography. Familiarise yourself with Professor McCormack's work and think about how your research can complement it. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in contributing to the department.
✨Prepare Engaging Teaching Examples
Since you'll be delivering lectures and seminars, prepare a couple of engaging teaching examples or methods you plan to use. Think about how you can make complex geographical concepts accessible and interesting for students. This will demonstrate your teaching style and commitment to high-quality education.
✨Showcase Your Research Passion
Be ready to discuss your research profile and any publications or conference presentations you've been involved in. Highlight how your research aligns with the department's goals and how you plan to maintain an active research agenda while balancing teaching responsibilities.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Support
The role requires a commitment to creating an inclusive academic environment. Be prepared to share your experiences or ideas on how to support diverse student needs and foster a collaborative atmosphere. This will reflect your understanding of the broader academic community and your dedication to student success.