Head of Doctoral Programmes

0.8 FTE

Role commencing 1^st September 2025

The Royal Northern College of Music seeks a Head of Doctoral Programmes (0.8FTE) with significant programme leadership experience and an internationally significant research profile to join our vibrant Research and Teaching leadership team, collaborating closely across all levels of teaching and research.

The successful candidate will work closely with the Director of Research to develop the institution’s doctoral programmes in line with the RNCM’s Strategy 2020-2026, focussing on the long-term vision for our Doctoral Programmes. They will contribute to external partnership building and will lead on the development of funding models for doctoral study at the RNCM.

The Head of Doctoral Programmes will oversee all day-to-day running of the RNCM’s doctoral programmes including admissions, delivery of doctoral training and doctoral events, monitoring student progression, programme budget, and managing training partnerships for students and supervisors. The postholder will supervise doctoral students as appropriate to their own research expertise and will bring with them experience in supporting doctoral students who work across music’s sub-disciplines.

The RNCM is continually recognised as one of the world’s most progressive conservatoires. We pride ourselves with providing a research-led, inquisitive and entrepreneurial teaching and learning environment across all programmes and schools. Doctoral Research spans classical and popular music genres and practices using a wide range of methodologies across music psychology, education, musicology and artistic practice.

This role is suitable for blended working as agreed with the line manager.

If you are unsure whether you meet all the criteria, or if you have any questions about the role, you are encouraged to contact our Director of Research, Professor Wiebke Thormählen (wiebke.thormahlen@rncm.ac.uk).

For full details and how to apply please visit our website at www.rncm.ac.uk/about/job-vacancies.

Please apply for this role using the Application Form. You will be required to submit a copy of your CV including Publication List (combined maximum of 4 pages) and a Cover Letter detailing how you meet the criteria set out in the person specification.

All of the fields are required unless stated otherwise.

Once you have submitted your application you will receive an automated email from ‘RNCM Website’ confirming your Application Form submission for this role.

Please note that applications received after the deadline will not be submitted to the panel.

If you have any queries about the application process please contact our Human Resources department via email at Recruitment@rncm.ac.uk.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Some applicants may require sponsorship from the College and a visa from UKVI to take up the role if successful. More information on this can be found here: www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa

Closing date: 12 Noon, Thursday 3^rd April 2025

Interview date: Friday April 11^th 2025: applicants invited to interview will be notified by close of play on Friday 4^th April 2025

The RNCM is committed to safeguarding and we prioritise creating a safe and secure environment for everyone. We seek individuals who share in our commitment to safeguarding and are willing to uphold these principles in all aspects of their work.

RNCM recognises that music is in every culture.

We are committed to building a diverse community of staff and students.

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