At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and inspire students in Ethics and Moral Philosophy while engaging in research.
- Company: Pembroke College, part of the University of Oxford, with a vibrant Philosophy community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, research allowances, pension scheme, and free meals at the College.
- Other info: Opportunity for career development and mentorship from leading academics.
- Why this job: Shape young minds and develop your academic career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Expertise in Ethics and Moral Philosophy; teaching experience is a plus.
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.
Philosophy Lecturer: Ethics & Moral Philosophy (Fixed-Term) in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
Pembroke College is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative environment for Philosophy Lecturers to thrive. With a strong emphasis on mentorship from esteemed academics and a vibrant community, employees benefit from professional development opportunities while engaging in meaningful research and teaching. The college's commitment to small group teaching fosters close relationships with students, enhancing the overall educational experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Philosophy Lecturer: Ethics & Moral Philosophy (Fixed-Term) in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow academics, attend philosophy events, and engage with the Pembroke community. Building connections can lead to opportunities that aren’t advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your teaching philosophy and ethical theories. Be ready to discuss how you’d approach teaching Moral Philosophy and Ethics in a small group setting.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your research interests! Make sure to highlight how your research aligns with the college’s focus areas. This can set you apart from other candidates.
✨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 Philosophy Lecturer: Ethics & Moral Philosophy (Fixed-Term) 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 Philosophy Lecturer position.
Personalise Your Cover Letter:Don’t just send a generic cover letter. Address it to the right person and mention why you’re excited about joining Pembroke College. Share your passion for Ethics and Moral Philosophy, and how you can contribute to our vibrant community.
Showcase Your Teaching Style:In your application, give us a glimpse of your teaching philosophy. How do you engage students in small group settings? Mention any innovative methods you use to make complex topics accessible and enjoyable.
Include Referees Wisely:Choose referees who know your work well and can speak to your teaching abilities and research. Make sure to inform them beforehand, so they’re ready to provide glowing recommendations when we reach out!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on key concepts in Ethics and Moral Philosophy, especially Mill’s Utilitarianism. Be prepared to discuss how these theories apply to real-world scenarios, as this will show your depth of understanding and ability to engage with students.
✨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 shows that you’re not just interested in the position but also in contributing to their vibrant academic environment.
✨Prepare for Teaching Demonstrations
Since you'll be teaching small groups, think about how you would approach a tutorial. Prepare a mini-lesson plan that showcases your teaching style and how you would encourage discussion among students. This is your chance to shine as an educator!
✨Show Your Research Passion
Be ready to talk about your research interests and how they align with the college's goals. Discuss any ongoing projects or future plans, and how you envision integrating your research into your teaching. This demonstrates your commitment to both teaching and scholarship.
