Lecturer in Critical Studies (Fine Art, Illustration and Photography) 095-26

Introduction to YSJ university

York St John is an ambitious, modern university at the heart of historic York and there has never been a more exciting time to join us.

As one of the fastest growing universities in the U.K over recent years, we have a new strategy for the next decade, emphasising our commitment to widening opportunity through the power of education and contributing our talents to creating a fairer world, and a more prosperous region. We are putting inspirational learning and impactful research at the heart of this strategy, recognising our academic expertise as our greatest asset.

The School

The School of the Arts offers undergraduate, postgraduate taught and research degrees across four departments: Fine Art, Design, Performance and Production. With a diverse postgraduate portfolio and a growing research community, the School is committed to student-centred teaching, applied creative practice and live industry engagement, encouraging students to think critically and creatively.

We are actively involved in work-related learning through partnerships with industry and external organisations. We are committed to decolonising the curriculum and fostering inclusive teaching practices. Our thriving research community supports colleagues in sharing research, joining interdisciplinary and specialist groups, and developing research-informed teaching. With around 70 staff, the School is a friendly, creative and collaborative community with a strong and growing research profile.

The Role

This role is permanent and part time (14.8 hours per week).

Applications are invited for a Lecturer in Critical Studies to teach undergraduate and postgraduate students in Fine Art, Illustration and Photography. The role involves delivering lectures, seminars and tutorials; assessing student work; supervising research and providing academic and pastoral support. The postholder will undertake independent research, develop funding applications and contribute to the wider academic community.

The Fine Art department is recognised for its ambitious and rigorous Critical Studies curriculum, supporting students to produce nationally recognised art-historical and -theoretical writing, including winners of the 2025 Association for Art History Undergraduate Dissertation Award and the 2026 Henry Moore Institute Postgraduate Dissertation Award.

Required skills and experience

Candidates should have a track record in contributing to undergraduate Critical Studies teaching, learning and assessment. They will possess a strong understanding of the theoretical, historical and contextual debates shaping contemporary visual practice, and be able to engage practice-based students effectively. Applicants will hold a PhD in art history, art theory or research-engaged practice, and be capable of developing and delivering teaching beyond their specialist area. As active researchers, they will contribute to the School’s research profile.

Additional information

Contact for informal candidate queries: Helen Turner, h.turner@yorksj.ac.uk

The selection process will include a presentation at interview and an observed teaching session. Further details will be provided if you are shortlisted for interview.

Unfortunately this role is not eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship, however, we welcome your application if you are able to evidence right to work in the UK via an alternative route.

Closing Date:– Friday, 7 August 2026 at midnight (BST).

Provisional Interview Date: Monday, 7 September 2026.

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