Professor of Social Innovation

Join us as a Professor of Social Innovation at the University of Salford and be part of one of the UK’s fastest growing universities!

The University of Salford is launching a new Social Innovation Institute, and we are seeking a Professor of Social Innovation to co-lead this bold initiative. This is a unique opportunity to shape a world-class platform for research and practice that delivers real-world impact.

This is a Professor of Practice role. Working alongside a senior academic co-lead, you will convene policymakers, social enterprises, and public and private sector partners to tackle society’s most pressing “wicked problems.” You will translate cutting-edge interdisciplinary research into actionable insights, strategies, and thought leadership that influence decision-makers locally, nationally, and internationally.

Reporting to the PVC Dean, you will play a central role in building a powerful, collaborative research community, and in positioning Salford as a global leader in social innovation. You will also grow our partnerships, secure major funding, and mentor colleagues in developing cross-boundary collaborations.

This is an exciting time to join the University as we expand our ambition to drive inclusive prosperity and sustainable futures. The Social Innovation Institute will act as the external face of our research excellence, bringing together diverse voices to co-design transformative solutions for people, planet, and place.

We are looking for a visionary leader with national-level policy expertise, exceptional networks, and a proven track record of driving social innovation. If you thrive at the intersection of evidence, strategy, and action, and want to shape how the world learns, collaborates, and scales impact—this is the role for you.

Key responsibilities 

• Co-lead the new Social Innovation Institute, positioning it as a national and international hub for evidence-driven social innovation and impact.
• Convene policymakers, social enterprise leaders, and public/private sector partners around complex “wicked problems,” co-designing research agendas and collaborative projects.
• Develop and disseminate thought-leadership outputs (e.g. reports, policy notes, strategies) of international standing that shape decision-making across sectors.
• Play a lead role in securing significant external research and innovation funding (normally £1m+) to drive action-oriented, interdisciplinary research.
• Build and sustain strategic partnerships with UK and international institutions to extend the reach and significance of the Institute’s research.

Demonstrate public-facing leadership in social innovation, including keynote speaking, membership of advisory boards, and convening collaborative initiatives.

Interviews will be held on 27th November 2025.

What's in it for you? 

• Competitive salary - and excellent pension scheme
• 32 days leave - plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more!
• Flexible working - we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance
• Our community - there's a real sense of belonging here at Salford. We value diversity, in backgrounds and in experience

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