Assistant or Associate Professor

Salary:

Assistant Professor from £70,718;

Associate Professor from £82,969 per annum

Location: South Kensington, London

About the role:

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London is seeking two outstanding academics to join our world‑leading community. As part of this recruitment, we are seeking individuals who will contribute to our vibrant research culture, deliver inspiring teaching, and help drive the department’s strategic vision.

The appointed Academics will contribute to one of the following strategic areas:

• Tribology & Interfacial Science,
• Computational Fluid Dynamics for Turbomachinery,
• Advanced Experimental Thermofluids Systems.

As the #1 Mechanical Engineering department in the UK in REF 2021, we are internationally recognised for excellence in research and innovation. Our work spans fundamental discovery to real‑world application, shaping technologies and solutions that address global challenges.

We are equally proud of our commitment to an exceptional student experience. The department consistently ranks in the top 10% in the UK for student satisfaction, reflecting our dedication to high‑quality teaching, supportive learning environments, and meaningful engagement with our students. In addition, Imperial’s Mechanical Engineering programmes regularly place in the UK top 10 in the QS World University Rankings, highlighting our global reputation for academic excellence.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) is central to who we are. We believe that excellence thrives in an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and supported. We strongly encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented in Mechanical Engineering, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture where all colleagues can succeed.

If you are excited by the opportunity to shape the future of Mechanical Engineering at one of the world’s leading universities, we would be delighted to hear from you.

What you would be doing:

As a member of our academic community, you’ll drive forward world‑class research in one of our strategically identified areas. You’ll lead innovative projects, secure research funding, publish high‑impact work, and build collaborations across Imperial, industry, and the global research community.

You will be fundamental in inspiring the next generation of engineers through exceptional teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels; contributing to curriculum development, supervising PhD researchers, and providing thoughtful academic and pastoral support. You’ll champion high‑quality education and help shape teaching practice within the department and beyond.

You’ll also play an active role in shaping the department’s strategic direction; contributing to planning, representing Imperial externally, and strengthening partnerships across the Faculty of Engineering. Strong leadership, teamwork, and a commitment to an inclusive, collaborative culture are essential, as is a willingness to take on key administrative and managerial responsibilities that support our research and teaching mission.

What we are looking for:

We welcome applications at both Assistant Professor (Lecturer) and Associate Professor (Reader) level. Requirements vary by seniority and subject area, and applicants should review the Job Description for full details.

Assistant Professors will demonstrate:

• A developing national reputation, evidenced by high‑quality publications
• Experience preparing competitive grant applications
• Experience teaching and supervising undergraduate and postgraduate students
• Evidence of contributing to the development and performance of colleagues

Associate Professors will additionally demonstrate:

• An established national and emerging international reputation, supported by an excellent publication record
• A strong track record of securing significant research funding
• Extensive experience leading the design and delivery of research programmes
• The ability to act as a role model in research, teaching and academic leadership
• Proven management and administrative experience

What we can offer you:

Joining the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London means becoming part of a world‑leading community that pushes the boundaries of research and education. You’ll work alongside exceptional colleagues, access state‑of‑the‑art facilities, and collaborate across disciplines to tackle global challenges

• The opportunity to continue your career at a world-leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity.
• Grow in your career with tailored training programmes for academic staff including dedicated support with navigating your career and managing research as well as a transparent promotion process.

• Sector-leading salary and remuneration package (including 41 days off a year and generous pension schemes).
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources designed to support your personal and professional wellbeing.

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