Director SOAS Middle East Institute.

SOAS, University of London; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Director for the Middle East Institute, focusing on enhancing research and teaching in Middle East studies. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a prestigious institute while fostering international partnerships and addressing global challenges. The successful candidate will have an international reputation in their field and will be responsible for developing strategies to enhance scholarship and teaching. With flexible working options and generous holiday allowances, this position is perfect for those looking to make a significant impact in higher education.

Benefits

44 days holiday

Flexible working options

Defined benefit pension scheme

Cycle to work scheme

Free eye tests

Season ticket loan

Enhanced maternity leave

Discounted gym membership

Qualifications

• Specialist knowledge and international reputation in Middle East studies.
• Ability to build effective relationships with academic communities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and teach in Middle East studies.
• Provide leadership to the Middle East Institute.

Skills

Middle East history

Economics

Government and political policy

Social and cultural affairs

Research leadership

Teaching expertise

Education

Professorial level position

Job description

Job title: Director SOAS Middle East Institute and MBI Al Jaber Chair of Middle East Studies

Department: SOAS Middle East Institute

Contract Type: Institute Director: Chair: Permanent

Grade: 10

Salary: Professorial Salary

Location: Bloomsbury

Hours: 35

SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa, and the Near and Middle East. SOAS is committed to reimagining higher education globally, with a strategic plan focused on renewal and revitalisation, emphasizing student responsiveness and research intensity. The university aims to foster international partnerships responsive to transnational global challenges.

About the Role:

Details on the key criteria for the role, including duties and responsibilities, are available on the SOAS website.

About the Department:

SOAS seeks to appoint a Director for the Middle East Institute and MBI Al Jaber Chair in Middle East Studies. The role involves a 50/50 split between these responsibilities.

The successful candidate will conduct research and teach in their area of expertise, providing strong leadership to the Middle East Institute. They will develop strategies to enhance research, scholarship, and teaching in the Middle East on a non-sectarian basis.

Applicants should have specialist knowledge and an international reputation in Middle East history, economics, government and political policy, or social and cultural affairs. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to build effective relationships with the academic community and potential funders in London, the UK, and the Middle East. Candidates must hold a Professorial level position.

Further Information:

Additional details on the role's criteria and responsibilities are available on the SOAS website. For an informal discussion, contact Professor Laura Hammond at [e-mail].

What We Offer:

• 44 days holiday (including 30 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 5 closure days, with 4 at Christmas and 1 at Easter)
• Flexible working options
• Defined benefit pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme, free eye tests, and season ticket loan
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and partner leave
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted gym membership

Application Process:

Please complete the online application form, uploading your CV, publications, and a supporting statement. The closing date is 25th May 2025, with interviews scheduled for the second week of June 2025.

Additional Information:

For questions or assistance with the application, contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS. Candidates must demonstrate eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain, in accordance with immigration laws. SOAS can offer sponsorship for eligible candidates.

We especially welcome applications from candidates from working-class backgrounds, first-generation higher education students, Black, Asian, and other minority ethnic groups, and underrepresented communities within the UK and beyond. All decisions will be made on merit through a fair and competitive process.