Head of Chemical and Physical Sciences

Keele University has international reach, a reputation for world-class research, high quality research-led education and an outstanding student experience. The University has invested heavily over the past 10 years in its campus and infrastructure, including its Central Science Laboratories. It is large enough to have high impact and profile, but small enough to sustain its commitment to community and individuals. The University is seeking to appoint an inspirational leader as Head of School of Chemical and Physical Sciences.

The School of Chemical and Physical Sciences, which encompasses Chemistry, Physics and Forensic Science, has performed well in recent years; research is buoyant, with a strong increase in grant income, student satisfaction is good, student numbers are healthy, staff turnover is low, and finances are strong. The new Head will lead an open and inclusive school with around 50 academic staff, over 650 undergraduate and postgraduate students, and a budget of £10m. The new Head of School will maintain and enhance the School's significant research ambitions, continue to develop Forensic Science as a key strength growth area, as well as growing chemistry and physics student numbers, bring a bold vision around teaching, and develop closer links with industry. The appointee will contribute to the leadership of the Faculty as a key member of the leadership team of the Faculty of Natural Sciences.

The successful candidate will bring a strong personal track-record of research in a relevant discipline, as well as previous leadership experience in an academic environment. Candidates will be strong all-round academic leaders, equally committed to research, teaching and students, and with the ability to motivate and inspire others. They will bring a maturity and confidence to the running of a complex operation and will be skilled at juggling competing priorities. This is an opportunity to build on recent successes, and to further enhance and grow a high-performing school and shape its strategic direction.

For further information and details of how to apply, please click on the Apply button above or contact Emma Wilkins at Dixon Walter on or at

Keele University values diversity, and is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity, and to proper and fair representation across its senior decision making groups. In support of these commitments, the University particularly welcomes expressions of interest and applications from women and from individuals of black, asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for this post.

Closing date for applications is Friday 24th May 2024.

Competitive salary