Lecturer in Public Policy

About us

The Department of Political Science and School of Public Policy at UCL is a leading international centre for political research. It offers a uniquely stimulating environment for the study of all major fields of politics, as well as public management and public policy. More details about the Department and UCL can be found below https://www.ucl.ac.uk/social-historical-sciences/political-science

About the role

We are seeking to appoint a Lecturer in Public Policy (equivalent of a U.S. tenure-track Assistant Professor position) and invite applicants with teaching and research expertise in any area of public policy. This could include, for example, regulatory policy, industrial policy, infrastructure policy, health policy, labour policy, welfare policy, environmental policy, immigration policy, technology policy, development policy, or public management and administration. The main purpose of the job is to undertake research of the highest international standard, to design and deliver teaching at undergraduate and graduate levels, and to serve in the administration of the Department and contribute to its intellectual community. We welcome applications from candidates from under-represented backgrounds and candidates using a wide range of theoretical and methodological approaches. This is full-time, permanent post available from 1 September 2026 open ended, and at Grade 8, with pay subject to negotiation.

About you

We are seeking applicants who hold or are near to completing a PhD in Political Science or related subject (e.g., Public Policy or Law); have research expertise in Public Policy; a proven ability in, or potential for, excellent academic research of international calibre. Although not essential, experience of teaching in related modules (including quantitative or qualitative research methods) at undergraduate or postgraduate level, and experience of feeding into policymaking or other forms of real-world impact, would be highly desirable.

How to apply

Please see detailed Job Description and Person Specification available below. Applicants should submit a CV and a supporting statement that specifically addresses the essential and desirable criteria set out in the person specification. Please note that samples of written work are not required at this stage, and applicants are therefore requested not to upload any further supporting information other than the aforementioned documents. Please submit your supporting statement by attaching it in MS Word or pdf format under the ‘Other Attachments’ section on the application portal.

Selection process:

The selection process will involve shortlisting applications based on their suitability towards the criteria listed in the person specifications. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to make a presentation to members of the department followed by a panel interview. Note that if shortlisted, certain recruitment documents, like the CV, will be shared with the department (who will be invited to presentations) in advance of the interview date, with the candidate’s permission. More information will be provided after shortlisting. Interviews will most likely be held on 18 May 2026.

If prospective applicants have questions about the post, they are welcome to contact the chair of the appointment committee, Professor Jeffrey Howard.

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer great benefits, including: 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days); Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE); Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan; On-Site nursery; On-site gym; Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay; Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service; Discounted medical insurance. Please visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits for further information.

Advert information