Lecturer in Heritage Job Available At The University of Edinburgh
he University of Edinburgh, established in 1582 by a royal charter from King James VI and officially opened in 1583, stands as one of Scotland’s four ancient universities and the sixth oldest in the English-speaking world. Unlike its predecessors, which were founded through papal bulls, it was uniquely established by the Edinburgh Town Council, reflecting a civic initiative in higher education. Initially known as “Tounis College” (Town’s College), the institution began with a focus on liberal arts and divinity, under the leadership of theologian Robert Rollock, who served as its first regent and later principal.
Throughout its history, the University has been a beacon of intellectual advancement, particularly during the Scottish Enlightenment of the 18th century. It became a hub for pioneering thinkers such as philosopher David Hume, chemist Joseph Black and geologist James Hutton, whose contributions significantly shaped modern philosophy, chemistry and geology, respectively.
The University’s commitment to innovation continued with milestones like the cloning of Dolly the sheep in 1996, the first mammal cloned from an adult somatic cell and the awarding of the Nobel Prize in Physics to Professor Peter Higgs in 2013 for his prediction of the Higgs Boson.
Today, the University of Edinburgh is a coeducational, privately controlled institution renowned for its research, education and innovation. It offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, attracting students and scholars from around the globe.
The University remains deeply integrated into the fabric of Edinburgh, contributing significantly to the city’s cultural and intellectual landscape. Its enduring legacy and ongoing contributions underscore its position as a leading institution in global higher education.
Exciting Lecturer Position in Heritage Studies at the University of Edinburgh
The School of History, Classics and Archaeology at the University of Edinburgh is seeking a passionate and forward-thinking Lecturer in Heritage to become an integral part of our vibrant academic environment. This position presents an exceptional opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research and innovative teaching while being a key figure in delivering the MSc in Cultural Heritage Futures at the Edinburgh Futures Institute.
This role is ideal for a scholar eager to explore contemporary heritage challenges, shape future generations of students and engage in interdisciplinary collaborations. The successful applicant will teach critical heritage studies, supervise undergraduate and postgraduate dissertations and conduct original research that addresses key issues in heritage data, preservation and societal impact.
About the Role
As part of this position, the selected candidate will:
- Teach and lead engaging courses on various aspects of heritage studies, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education in critical heritage theories, research methodologies and real-world applications.
- Play a pivotal role in the MSc in Cultural Heritage Futures program, aligning course content with contemporary global heritage debates, technological innovations and sustainability.
- Supervise and mentor students, guiding their dissertation projects and research initiatives across undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
- Develop impactful research in the critical heritage studies domain, contributing to the University’s global standing as a leader in heritage scholarship.
- Work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary setting, engaging with colleagues across different disciplines to explore how heritage studies can address pressing societal issues.
- Support the University’s outreach efforts, actively engaging with external organizations, heritage institutions and public audiences.
Contract Details & Working Conditions
This position is full-time (35 hours per week) and fixed-term, running from 15 August 2025 to 31 August 2026. However, we welcome applications from candidates who are seeking:
- Part-time roles
- Flexible work schedules
- Hybrid work arrangements (a mix of remote and on-campus responsibilities)
We aim to provide a supportive and accommodating work environment that enables our faculty to balance professional and personal commitments effectively.
Salary & Benefits
This role is offered at Grade UE08, with an annual salary range of £49,250 – £60,321. The initial appointment will be made at Step 1 (£49,250 per annum).
Beyond a competitive salary, the University of Edinburgh provides an exceptional benefits package, which includes:
- Generous holiday entitlement
- Comprehensive pension schemes
- Staff discounts on various services
- Supportive family-friendly policies
- Opportunities for professional development
For a complete overview of employee benefits, please visit our staff benefits page and explore our reward calculator to understand the total value of your pay and benefits.
Key Qualifications & Skills Required
To succeed in this role, candidates should possess:
Academic and Research Expertise
- A strong background in Critical Heritage Studies, with a focus on heritage policy, digital heritage, public engagement or conservation practices.
- A track record of published research in peer-reviewed journals or books.
- Experience in securing research grants and funding (preferred but not essential).
Teaching & Student Engagement
- Experience in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, with a commitment to innovative pedagogical approaches.
- Ability to motivate and inspire students, helping them develop critical thinking skills and a deep appreciation for heritage studies.
- Competence in supervising student dissertations and research projects.
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
- Capacity to work collaboratively within a diverse academic team.
- Strong ability to communicate complex heritage concepts to both academic and public audiences.
- Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary research and teaching collaborations.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
- A comprehensive CV detailing their academic background, research and teaching experience.
- A cover letter explaining how their qualifications and experience align with the requirements of the role.
To apply, click the link below:
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
The University of Edinburgh is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion. We actively support initiatives that ensure an inclusive work environment for all employees.
- We hold a Silver Athena SWAN Award, reflecting our dedication to gender equality in higher education.
- We are members of the Race Equality Charter, striving to eliminate racial disparities in academia.
- As Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, we actively advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion.
We strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including individuals from diverse racial, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds.
Work Authorization & Visa Sponsorship
International applicants are welcome to apply. The University of Edinburgh is able to sponsor visas for this role, provided the candidate meets the UK Home Office’s Skilled Worker Visa criteria.
Key considerations for international candidates:
- Successful applicants must satisfy the English language requirements set by the UK Home Office.
- If the role is offered on a part-time basis, visa sponsorship eligibility will depend on individual circumstances and whether the role meets Home Office salary thresholds.
Important Dates to Remember
- Application Deadline: 26 February 2025 (by 11:59 PM GMT). If applying from outside the UK, the deadline will adjust automatically to your local timezone.
- Interviews: Scheduled shortly after the application deadline.
The School of History, Classics and Archaeology is home to world-class researchers and educators dedicated to exploring the past to inform the future. Our Archaeology department specializes in:
- European, Middle Eastern and Scottish archaeology, spanning from early prehistory to the medieval period.
- Prehistoric, classical and science-based archaeology, including osteoarchaeology and forensic anthropology.
- Landscape archaeology, integrating technological advancements like GIS and remote sensing.
- Field research and excavations in locations such as Turkey, Italy and various European sites.
With a dynamic postgraduate community and strong collaborations with Scottish and international archaeological institutions, the University of Edinburgh remains a leader in archaeological and heritage studies.
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a thriving academic environment while shaping the future of heritage research and education.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Lecturer in Heritage Position at the University of Edinburgh
1. What is the primary focus of this Lecturer position?
This role focuses on Critical Heritage Studies, including teaching, research and dissertation supervision. The successful candidate will contribute to the MSc in Cultural Heritage Futures at the Edinburgh Futures Institute while also engaging in undergraduate teaching and interdisciplinary collaboration.
2. What are the key qualifications required for this position?
Candidates should have proven expertise in Critical Heritage Studies, experience in teaching at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and the ability to engage students from diverse backgrounds. Research experience and a strong publication record are also highly valued.
3. Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a fixed-term contract running from 15 August 2025 to 31 August 2026. However, depending on institutional needs and funding, future opportunities may arise.
4. What is the salary range for this role?
The salary for this position falls within Grade UE08, ranging from £49,250 to £60,321 per year. The successful candidate will initially be appointed at Step 1 (£49,250 per annum).
5. Is remote or hybrid work available for this position?
Yes, hybrid working arrangements are considered on a non-contractual basis, meaning candidates may have the flexibility to work partially remote while also being required to conduct regular on-campus teaching and research activities.
6. Does the University of Edinburgh offer visa sponsorship for international applicants?
Yes, the University is able to sponsor visas for international candidates, provided they meet the UK Home Office Skilled Worker Visa requirements, including English language proficiency.
7. What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit:
- A comprehensive CV outlining academic and professional experience.
- A detailed cover letter explaining their suitability for the role and how their expertise aligns with the position’s requirements.
8. When is the application deadline?
The closing date for applications is 26 February 2025, with applications due by 11:59 PM GMT. If applying from outside the UK, the deadline will adjust automatically to the applicant’s local time zone.
9. What are the diversity and inclusion commitments of the University?
The University of Edinburgh is deeply committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). It holds a Silver Athena SWAN Award for gender equality and is a member of the Race Equality Charter and Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions promoting LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
10. Where can I apply for this position?
Interested applicants can apply through the official University of Edinburgh job portal by following this link:
Apply Here.
