Associate Professor in Optometry

University of Leicester; Leicester; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Leicester is seeking an Associate Professor in Optometry (Teaching Focused) to lead the development and delivery of our new Optometry programme within the School of Healthcare. This full-time, permanent, campus-based role will create an outstanding student experience through innovative and inclusive teaching and assessment practices.

You will contribute to programme development, quality assurance, and staff and student development while building strong national and

Qualifications

• Significant teaching experience at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Experience in programme management and development of learning resources.
• Senior Fellowship of Advance HE or commitment to achieve it after appointment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver an innovative Optometry teaching programme.
• Lead assessment design and quality assurance across the programme.
• Provide academic and pastoral support to students and mentor staff.
• Collaborate with colleagues and external partners to shape educational strategy.

Skills

Teaching experience

Leadership

Curriculum development

Communication skills

Education

PhD in a relevant subject (desirable)

Tools

Blackboard

Job description

About the role

The University of Leicester is seeking an Associate Professor in Optometry (Teaching Focused) to support the continued development of our new Optometry programme within the School of Healthcare. In this full-time, permanent, campus-based role, you will help to develop and deliver a distinctive, class-leading programme that meets the needs of students, employers and the relevant regulatory body. Working collaboratively with colleagues across Optometry and the wider School, you will lead the creation and delivery of innovative, inclusive and research-inspired teaching, assessment and learning materials that provide an outstanding student experience.

You will contribute to programme development and quality assurance, provide academic and pastoral support to students, and help shape the School's long-term educational strategy. You will also support staff and student development through leadership, coaching and mentoring, while building productive relationships across the University and with national and international partners.

Please note that working on a part-time basis (0.8 FTE) would also be considered

About you

Although a PhD in a relevant subject area is desirable it is not essential, and you will be registered with the General Optical Council as an Optometrist, Dispensing Optician or Contact Lens Optician, or belong to a related registered profession. You will bring substantial experience of teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate level, together with a sustained record of excellent student outcomes and evidence of developing innovative teaching and learning practice. You will also have experience of programme management and delivery, supporting the development of students and colleagues, supervising students successfully, and undertaking pedagogical or disciplinary research that informs high-quality teaching. Senior Fellowship of Advance HE, an equivalent accredited teaching qualification, or a commitment to achieve the required qualification following appointment is also essential.

An effective and collaborative leader, you will be able to motivate and develop others while working confidently both independently and within a multidisciplinary team. You will have excellent communication, presentation, interpersonal and organisational skills, alongside the ability to use a range of teaching methods and develop high-quality learning resources. A strong commitment to student support, equity, diversity, inclusion and continuous improvement will be central to your approach. Experience of continuing professional development, distance learning, Blackboard, or initiatives that improve recruitment and student outcomes would be advantageous.

Additional information

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Christian French on [e-mail]

Interviews are anticipated to be held w/c 26th October 2026

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people's lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you'll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We're committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Vacancy terms

Full time, Permanent