Full job descriptionDirector of Postgraduate ResearchFHASS - Faculty EducationJob Details*Location: Bailrigg, Lancaster, UK
*Salary: £-1 Part Time, Fixed Term
*Closing Date: Tuesday 17 November 2026
*Interview Date: To be confirmed
*Please note: this job is only available to current employees of Lancaster University
The Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (FHASS) is seeking to appoint an Interim Director of Postgraduate Research. This Faculty level leadership role is open to internal applicants only who must be an academic colleague within the Faculty and also hold a substantive post that exceeds the duration of the term of the appointment. Applicants will normally be at senior lecturer level or above, however appointments will be made depending on the context, objectives and circumstances of the needs of the role at the time and on the skills and experience of particular candidates.
Term of officeThe successful candidate will be expected to begin in role as soon as possible after the selection process. The post amounts to a 0.3 Full Time Equivalent appointment; this will be fully reflected in workload allocation models. The school from which the appointee comes will be appropriately supported to cover any effects on the delivery of its teaching programmes. It is offered on an interim basis until 31 July 2027 with the possibility of further extension. At the end of their term, the role holder ceases their Director responsibilities, returning to their substantive role.
The roleThis is an opportunity to become a member of the Faculty Senior Leadership Team, working closely with the PVC Arts, Humanities, Management & Social Science, Associate Dean for Research, and PGR Leads in Schools. The role holder will provide strategic oversight and coordination for all postgraduate research initiatives within the Faculty. The role is also an opportunity to gain valuable insight and experience in working with relevant central University colleagues and divisions. The appointee will represent the Faculty within and beyond the University.
The role of Director provides academic leadership for the Faculty, to develop strategies around and shape our approach to this important portfolio and inspire and engage Faculty colleagues in the delivery of these. In particular, the Director will oversee the strategic direction of the doctoral programmes in the faculty including recruitment, student experience, and academic standards. This a significant career opportunity to be a key member of the Faculty’s leadership team
Reward and recognitionSalary supplement
In recognition for taking on the role, the Director will receive a non-superannuable responsibility allowance of £2,000 per annum or opt for part of this to be paid into their research account.
Application ProcessTo apply, please complete the on-line application process by submitting your application via the Stonefish system 29^th October 2026 in the following format:
*A covering letter (2 x A4 max of text) to include an expression of interest, noting why you wish to apply, your intended vision for and approach to the role, how you would intend to approach the areas listed under Essential and Desirable skills, and noting any relevant experience giving examples relating to the areas of responsibility listed in the job description.
*Your up-to-date CV.
Please note that references are not required.
Interviews of shortlisted candidates are expected to take place in person on Monday 16th November 2026.
We are committed to promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion across the Faculty, and supporting family-friendly, flexible and agile working policies. We encourage applications from all diversity groups.