Head of Department - Social and Psychological Sciences

Human and Health Sciences
Competitive Remuneration Salary
Permanent
Full-time

The Department of Social and Psychological Sciences at Huddersfield is entering an important period of growth and development. We are looking for an ambitious academic leader to shape the next phase of a large, multidisciplinary department spanning psychology, criminology, social sciences and associated research activity. This is an exciting opportunity to join the University as we progress with ambitious development and expansion plans in the School, including within our new National Health Innovation Campus, with recent new developments in Health, Investigative and Neuroscience Psychology. 

The School of Human and Health Sciences is the largest in the University with approximately 5500 students and 300 members of staff. Home to more than 900 students, the Department brings together psychology, criminology, policing, social work and health and social care, with undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral provision alongside active research centres and groups.

The role provides:

- Strategic leadership and management across the Department’s portfolio, including responsibility for staff, resources, and performance.
- Leadership of the development and delivery of new initiatives across research, innovation, enterprise, and taught provision, ensuring alignment with School and University priorities.

The post offers significant institutional influence. As a member of the School Senior Leadership Team and University Management Group, the Head of Department will help shape both School and University strategy.

We are looking for an inclusive, collaborative and ambitious academic leader with a strong record of achievement in higher education. You will bring experience of academic leadership, a doctoral qualification in a relevant discipline and a strong track record in research, including publications and external income generation.

You should meet the University’s criteria for conferment at Professor level. You should also be registered with the Higher Education Academy and have CMI status or be willing to complete this within 12 months of appointment.

This is an opportunity to lead a large and diverse Department at a point when there is considerable scope to shape its future direction.

The University is deeply committed to equality and diversity for all its students and staff. We seek to be diverse and inclusive, supporting individuals and groups to fulfil their potential and nurture a sense of belonging. We strive to be an accessible, inclusive employer, removing barriers for all. Find out more about our approach to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, including our commitments and accreditations as a Disability Confident Leader, Stonewall Gold Award holder and Top 100 Employer, Athena SWAN Bronze Award holder and Race Equality Charter Bronze Award holder on our website.

Informal enquiries are welcome to Professor Warren Gillibrand (Dean) via email at hhs-deansofficesupport@hud.ac.uk.  

For further details about this post, please select the Apply button shown.

Closing date: 29 November 2026.

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