Assistant Professor; Practice in Forensic Science

Job Description

Northumbria University invites applications for Assistant Professors (Practice) in the School of Geography and Natural Science. The university is expanding its forensic science community, creating up to ten new appointments across all career stages to build critical mass and research capacity.

You will help shape the future direction of forensic science teaching and practice, contribute to curriculum innovation, and inspire the next generation of forensic practitioners within a newly‑formed School with state‑of‑the‑art facilities and strong institutional support.

The School of Geography and Natural Science is at an inflection point. Following major institutional investment and strategic reorganisation, the university is building one of the UK’s leading forensic science research groups. This is a rare opportunity to:

• Develop and apply contemporary forensic science practice to enrich teaching and curriculum
• Contribute to the development of degree programmes, teaching practice, and professional links
• Benefit from mentoring and support as part of a growing team – we welcome group hire applications
• Access dedicated facilities including a Crime Scene House, in‑house multi‑omics capabilities (genomics, metabolomics, proteomics), high‑performance computing for bioinformatics, and expert technical support

We seek practitioners and educators who can bring contemporary forensic science practice into the classroom, driving excellence in teaching, learning, and professional engagement.

• Professional forensic science practice – streamlined forensic reporting, expert witness testimony, and courtroom experience
• Forensic analysis and interpretation – biological, chemical, digital, or trace evidence
• Allied disciplines – forensic genomics, metabolomics, proteomics, environmental forensics, wildlife crime, or digital investigation

This list is not exhaustive. We encourage applications from candidates whose work complements or extends our existing strengths. The role description and person specification for this role can be found here.

• A first degree in a relevant discipline and specialist knowledge gained through a PhD or equivalent professional practice
• Experience contributing to high‑quality academic or professional teaching, learning, and assessment in forensic science or related disciplines
• Substantial professional experience and/or evidence of standing within the forensic science profession, with a commitment to excellent practice‑informed teaching
• Commitment to supporting an excellent and inclusive student experience

• Academic leadership opportunities in a growing School during a period of strategic investment
• Competitive salary
• Access to research funding, mentorship programmes, and career development support
• State‑of‑the‑art facilities including dedicated Crime Scene House, multi‑omics laboratories, and high‑performance computing
• Supportive, collegial culture with Athena SWAN Bronze award and commitment to diversity and inclusion
• Excellent pension schemes, flexible working arrangements, generous holiday entitlement
• Relocation assistance available for successful candidates – we welcome applications from the UK and internationally

• A covering letter explaining your interest and fit for the role
• Full CV including research and education statements
• List of research funding (with grant title, funder, amount, and your role)
• Your four best research outputs since 2021
• PDFs of your top two publications

For informal discussions about this role or group hire opportunities, please contact Professor Andy Shepherd, Head of School. We welcome applications from the UK and across the world. Visit our web pages for details about Relocation Assistance.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. Northumbria University holds Athena SWAN Bronze, HR Excellence in Research, and Disability Confident awards. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and welcome discussions about flexible working arrangements.

The School of Geography and…