Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Public Engagement) and Dean of the School of Advanced Study , University of London

The University of London is the UK’s largest provider of international online and distance education, which it delivers in partnership with 11 federation member universities, to improve access to higher education around the world.

The University’s purpose is to increase access to education, champion research excellence and deliver social good.

More than 40,000* students in over 190 countries around the world are studying University of London programmes.

Dear Candidate
Thank you for your interest in joining the University of London at this exciting moment in our history. As one of the world’s leading universities, we have a proud tradition of breaking boundaries; championing access to higher education, advancing research with real-world impact, and collaborating across borders to share knowledge and drive innovation. Our global reputation is built on this enduring commitment to excellence and inclusion.
Today, the University of London stands at a pivotal point. We are transforming our approach to education, research, and public engagement to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Our ambitious Library Transformation Programme is reshaping how we support scholarship and learning, while our internationally renowned School of Advanced Study continues to drive forward interdisciplinary research and promote the vital role of the humanities in society. Meanwhile, the University of London Institute in Paris is strengthening its academic standing and broadening its global reach, offering a distinctive learning environment in the heart of Europe.
Strategically, this is a remarkable time to join us. As we redevelop our worldwide programmes and focus on developing our 2030 strategic plan, we are creating new opportunities for impact, innovation, and collaboration. Whether by reimagining the role of libraries in the digital age, expanding our influence in public engagement, or advancing new models of international education, we are embracing bold, forward-thinking initiatives.
We are seeking exceptional leaders who share our vision: individuals with the creativity, academic expertise, and strategic acumen to help shape the University’s next chapter. If you are inspired by the prospect of contributing to an institution with a global outlook, a rich heritage, and a dynamic future, I encourage you to explore these particular opportunities further, and in this microsite you will find access to more detailed information about each of the senior posts.
I look forward to welcoming talented and ambitious individuals to the University of London—people who will help us continue to make a profound and lasting difference in the world.
Professor Wendy Thomson CBE
Vice-Chancellor
University of London
University of London
The federation of the University of London is made up of 17 renowned higher education institutions. Collectively this federation contributes to making London the global capital for Higher Education; London is home to more top-ranking universities than any other city worldwide.
The University of London is also a national leader in the humanities, promoting and facilitating research across disciplines and advocating for the humanities and their importance to society.
While rooted in London, the University was founded on the ideals of inclusivity, diversity and collaboration and its global community is united by a common belief: that the power of collective expertise can transform people’s lives.
The University of London’s Strategy 2020-2025
The University of London’s strategic aim is to enrich its academic work in the pursuit of excellence in education, research and knowledge exchange.
Working in collaboration with its federation members, the University of London aims to develop its programmes, networks and partnerships and to further its impact across London, the UK and globally.
The University of London’s objectives are to:
· strengthen its position as the UK’s leading provider of distance learning internationally, delivering cutting-edge programmes to increased numbers of students;
· encourage intellectual exchange and public engagement, drawing on the University’s expertise in the humanities, distance learning, careers and employability, and inclusivity/widening access;
· develop and continuously adapt its organisation and capacity to anticipate the university of the future.
Click here to read the position description
All applications must include:
- A full curriculum vitae/resume
- Quoting the relevant role reference number: A040578
- A covering letter highlighting the aspects of the job description and The University of London that particularly attract you to the post (Microsoft Word document)
- Contact details for three referees, these will not be contacted without your permission. (References should validate a minimum period of six years employment)
- A completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form (which you will be redirected to once you have submitted your application) *
Right to work checks
If you are successfully shortlisted, our partner, Yoti, will contact you to complete an online right to work check. This is a quick and secure process, ensuring that all necessary legal requirements are met before proceeding further in the recruitment process.
Monitoring
One of Alumni Global’s and the University of London’s objectives is to ensure that its workforce is reflective of the local community and therefore we actively encourage applications from under-represented groups. So that we can successfully achieve these aims, while it is not mandatory we would encourage every applicant to complete the “Equal Opportunities Monitoring form” so that we can measure the effectiveness of our efforts. The Recruiting Manager does not have access to the Monitoring Information Sections of the application form at any stage of the process and the information provided will be kept entirely confidential.
For a confidential discussion on this role please contact:
Owen Francis, Director or Michael Earnshaw, Director of Research, on +44 77 1905 59 71
Candidate adjustment
If you require any reasonable adjustments to be made as part of the recruitment process please can you advise us so that we can ensure this is accommodated.
Closing date: 8th May 2025
Final Interviews: 5th June 2025
Please ensure you have made a note of the final interview date(s). We recommend that you bookmark this microsite, as any potential updates regarding the role will be posted online.