Professor and Head of Department of Chemistry

People Scout; Liverpool; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university in Liverpool seeks a Professor and Head of Department of Chemistry to lead the Chemistry Department, ensuring ambitious development and strategic direction. The role requires a PhD in Chemistry or a related field, along with substantial leadership and research experience. The successful candidate will have a significant impact on both teaching and research, fostering an inclusive environment. Applications are encouraged from diverse backgrounds. Deadline for applications is 4th January 2026.

Qualifications

• Eligibility to be appointed at a professorial level.
• Strong leadership skills and experience in academic administration.
• A proven track record in research and teaching in Chemistry.

Responsibilities

• Lead and shape the future direction of the Chemistry Department.
• Develop and implement strategic plans for the department.
• Establish research and teaching contributions alongside headship responsibilities.

Education

PhD in Chemistry or related field

Job description

THE UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL

Faculty of Science and Engineering

School of Physical Sciences

Department of Chemistry

Professor and Head of Department of Chemistry

Competitive Salary

The Department of Chemistry at Liverpool is one of the most exciting places in the UK to study or research Chemistry. Our pioneering research, bringing about positive changes to society and the economy, was ranked 3rd for impact nationally in successive Research Excellence Framework (REF) exercises (REF2014 and REF2021). The Department is in the top 5 Chemistry Departments for research income in the UK and was awarded the Queen’s Anniversary Prize in 2023.

We are looking to appoint the next Head of Department to lead and shape the future direction of our world‑leading Chemistry Department and deliver ambitious plans to develop the Chemistry estate.

Reporting to the Dean of School, you will provide strong leadership to the Department of Chemistry and will have significant management and operational responsibilities. You will work closely with the Dean of School and the School Leadership Team in developing the School and Department strategic plans and will be responsible for implementing plans at departmental level. You will have a key role in defining and implementing the Research and Impact Strategy for Chemistry, ensuring an outward‑looking research agenda. You will assume a professorial role in the School and will be expected to establish research and teaching contributions alongside the headship responsibilities.

We encourage applications from individuals from groups underrepresented within our workforce, particularly women and people who identify as Black, Asian or from a minority ethnic background. Salary will be commensurate with the appointee’s accomplishments, potential, and the academic rank of the appointment.

Informal enquiries regarding the post should be directed to the School Dean, Professor Karl Coleman, [e-mail] or Head of Operations Mrs Louise Hobson, [e-mail].

The deadline for applications for this position is Sunday 4th January 2026. Formal interviews and presentations will take place on Thursday 5th February 2026.

Commitment to Diversity

The University of Liverpool is committed to enhancing workforce diversity. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain colleagues with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all genders/gender identities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, individuals living with a disability, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Job Ref: 102935

Closing Date: 4 January 2026