150th Anniversary Chairs

A global call for exceptional academic leaders to help shape the future of the University of Liverpool

Join a world-class university at a defining moment in its history.

The Opportunity  

This is a rare moment to shape the future of a world-class university. As the University of Liverpool advances towards its 150th anniversary and delivers the bold ambitions of Liverpool 2031, we are seeking exceptional academic leaders ready to define what comes next. 

Through our prestigious 150^th Anniversary Chair campaign, we will appoint up to fifteen internationally distinguished professors whose research, leadership and influence can accelerate discovery, strengthen partnerships and expand our global standing. 

At Liverpool, you will join a research-intensive institution with the confidence to invest, the scale to convene and the ambition to lead. With outstanding interdisciplinary strengths, major infrastructure investment and a strategic drive towards globally leading research and impact, Liverpool offers the platform to turn bold ideas into lasting change.

You will be empowered to grow an internationally recognised research portfolio, inspire the next generation of talent, forge influential collaborations and help shape the strategic direction of your field from one of the UK’s most ambitious universities.

Bring your vision, ambition and global profile to one of our priority areas:

• Advanced Materials – drive the next frontier of discovery in AI-enabled materials research, autonomous laboratories, advanced manufacturing, biomaterials and biofilms.
• Health and Life Sciences – transform lives through research spanning therapeutics, infection, neuroscience and women’s health, with opportunities to lead across the full translational pathway. 
• Artificial Intelligence, Data Science and Digital Technologies – shape the future of AI and digital innovation across science, health, industry and the creative economy.
• Clean Energy, Oceans and Maritime Science – lead solutions for a more sustainable future through pioneering work in clean energy systems, ocean science and maritime innovation.
• Creative Futures and the Cultural & Creative Economy – redefine the future of music, film, gaming and digital creativity, with a strong focus on innovation at the intersection of culture and AI. 

Why Liverpool, Why Now

Liverpool 2031 sets out a bold strategic ambition: to build on our long-standing strengths in research and education and be recognised for globally leading research, the quality and scale of our partnerships, and our positive impact on people, place and planet.

What You Will Bring

As an academic leader with the vision to build internationally visible programmes, unlock major opportunities and create lasting impact through interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation and global engagement, this is the opportunity for you.  

What We Offer 

You will join an ambitious, research-intensive university with the scale, confidence and commitment to back bold ideas. We offer the opportunity to shape strategic research direction, work across strong interdisciplinary communities, build high-value partnerships and extend your influence through a platform designed for global impact.

A Call to Exceptional Scholars

If you are ready to shape the future of your discipline, influence the direction of a globally ambitious university and play a defining role in our journey to 2031 and beyond, we would be delighted to hear from you. 

For more information : 150th Anniversary Chairs | Research | University of Liverpool

How to apply. 

There are three separate documents which will form your application:

• An online application form
• A 2 page CV
• A 150th Anniversary Chair – Supporting Statement (please use the template provided with the Job Description) 

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 

We are committed to enhancing a workforce as diverse as our community and particularly encourage applicants who are of minoritised genders and ethnic backgrounds, living with a disability, and/or are members of the LGBTQIA+ community.

As part of our commitment to fostering an inclusive and world-leading academic environment, we recognise the importance of work–life balance and actively support flexible working practices. We therefore welcome discussions at all stages of the recruitment process regarding part-time working, job-sharing, and other flexible arrangements in order to support a diverse pool of applicants.

Closing Date:  26 August 2026 23:30

For full details and to apply online, please click on the apply button above.