Senior Lecturer in Architecture - Technologies Lead

The Manchester School of Architecture is ranked 5th in the prestigious QS world university rankings and enjoys the unique context of being a collaboration between Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester. It is one of the largest Schools of Architecture in the country with over 1200 students (typically representing some 85 countries) and over 150 staff from diverse backgrounds and is proud to retain both its quality and sense of community despite its size.

The School is characterised by excellence, ambition, boldness, inquisitiveness, innovation, and social justice and responsibility. These facets generate a unique blend and balance between research led teaching, impressive and relevant research outputs (84% of research activity is world leading or internationally excellent), and extensive professional industry links, all of which encourage our students to cultivate their own unique approach to architecture and their careers thereafter.

Manchester has a long heritage in world technological innovation from being the cradle of the industrial revolution, to being at the forefront of computing, to the invention of graphene. At MSA, we continue to encourage technological innovation in the work of our students, in research and in design studio settings. 

The specific role is for a new, School-wide role to lead construction and material technologies across our range of programmes, principally BA and M.Arch Architecture but also PG programmes in Landscape, Urbanism, and Adaptive Reuse, building on our current approach of the tools for making architecture. This approach encompasses the processes and theories of design, construction and tectonics that constitute architecture which builds from a strong platform of core content that teaches the fundamentals and principles of technology and environment.

The successful candidate will also be expected to contribution to the technologies teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels across the School. Therefore, experience in architectural practice delivering projects at a range of scales, and in contemporary contexts such as advances in technology, digital, materials, construction, fabrication and environmental design will be important, as will the ability to teach all project stages from creative, experimental and speculative open-ended projects to technical and regulatory resolution of comprehensive building design projects.

The role includes the leadership of a number of staff who teach within this area and the need to oversee a number of modules across the various programmes. These modules are centrally delivered to whole cohorts and contain the core content required to meet PSRB and school expectations for graduates entering design professions such as architecture. This allows for freedom in the focus and agendas that can be explored in other modules/ elements of assessment. Core content in these modules includes the principles of construction, materials, structures and environment and the implications of regulation on architectural designs (note that the broader legislative and regulatory contexts such as approvals processes and professionalism are the remit of Professional Studies modules).  

The role will also require the ability to be a strategic thinker to develop the strategy, narrative, and pedagogies, the ability to liaise with School, Programme, and Year leaders, respond to PSRB developments, and manage financial and human resources.

Previous teaching and academic experience is essential to meet the requirements of a Senior Lecturer position. You will also have exceptional inter-personal and communication qualities, excellent organisational and administrative skills, and a collaborative approach to working. We will also look to you to ensure an excellent student experience through the use of relevant and inspiring learning and teaching.

Staff who hold a PhD and/or are research active in line with the requirements of the University will be awarded a 30% research time allocation with ECRs receiving 20% under our Research Education Citizenship (REC) pathway.

Informal and confidential discussions can be held with Head of School, Professor Kevin Singh via k.singh@mmu.ac.uk or Professional Skills Lead, Stephen McCusker via S.McCusker@mmu.ac.uk

Manchester Metropolitan University fosters an inclusive culture of belonging that promotes equity and celebrates diversity. We value a diverse workforce for the innovation and diversity of thought it brings and welcome applications from local and international communities, particularly those from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ individuals.  

We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including hybrid and tailored schedules, which can be discussed with your line manager. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or in your role, please let us know so we can provide appropriate support.  

Our commitment to inclusivity includes mentoring programmes, accessibility resources and professional development opportunities to empower and support underrepresented groups.