Head of Natural Sciences

Manchester Metropolitan University balances a proud 200-year heritage with a modern and ambitious approach to deliver the highest standards of accessible Higher Education and research. We are a community that is confident, passionate and proud, attributes which we share with our great home city. We are a hub of groundbreaking creativity, sporting prowess and pioneering works in Science, Engineering, Health, Education, Business and Law, continuing to drive progress and make meaningful connections in industry and government. With our world-leading research and TEF Gold status, we aim to harness our creativity and confidence to enrich our students’ lives, raise the impact of our excellent education and research, and continue to engage with Manchester and the wider world. The University now seeks to appoint an ambitious and influential Professor as the next Head of Department of Natural Sciences.

Reporting directly to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the Head of Department of Natural Sciences will provide strategic leadership and management to the Department, which is one of five departments within the Faculty. The Department spans the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science and Geography. The Department is in an exceptional space, housed in the Faculty’s new Dalton Building at the heart of Manchester, and with strong research and teaching performance across the Department. The new Head will build on the existing success of the Department, growing its reputation both within the University and externally. As the University continues to invest in the Faculty of Science and Engineering, the new Head of Department will have the opportunity to be a pioneer for Natural Sciences, working on a pattern of continuous improvement and profile-raising. They will have the opportunity to work widely within the Faculty of Science and Engineering, interacting across the whole University as needed.

We are seeking a motivated and effective leader, with a strong academic record in research and teaching in a relevant academic discipline to the Department. They will possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills, especially in developing relationships with a wide range of stakeholders. Candidates will bring a successful track record of leadership, and will be able to mentor and inspire a diverse population of staff and students. Ideal candidates will bring a genuine commitment to equality and diversity, which is reflective of Manchester Metropolitan’s widening participation perspective. The successful candidate will need to be at Professorial level.

Further information and how to apply

Please do not apply for this vacancy via the University website.

For further information and details of how to apply, please visit www.minervasearch.com/current-opportunities/mmu or contact our retained Search Partner, Minerva via mmu@minervasearch.com

The closing date for applications is 3^rd March 2025.

Final interviews will be held on Monday 7^th April 2025.

Applications must include a full CV and a letter of application setting out your interest in the role and details of how your knowledge, skills and experience match the essential criteria being sought.

Manchester Met University is committed to creating an intentionally inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We understand the importance of having a diverse workforce and the benefits it can bring to ensuring diversity of thought and innovation in everything we do. We, therefore, encourage applications from people from ethnic minority groups, disabled people and people who identify as LGBTQIA+.

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