Lecturer in Political Science

University College London

About Us

The Department of Political Science at UCL is a leading international centre for the study of all major fields of politics and public policy. Details can be found at:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/social-historical-sciences/political-science

Within the Department of Political Science, the Constitution Unit conducts rigorous, independent research into constitutional change and reform of political institutions that informs policy-makers and public debate. Details can be found at:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/social-historical-sciences/constitution-unit

About the Role

The UCL Department of Political Science wishes to appoint a Lecturer in British and Comparative Politics. The successful candidate will join and contribute to the work of the Constitution Unit.

The successful candidate will undertake research of the highest international standard to add to the research standing, culture, and impact of the Department and the Constitution Unit. They will contribute to the Department’s undergraduate and/or post-graduate teaching programmes, as appropriate given their specific expertise in British and Comparative Politics and the evolving teaching needs of the department.

They will also serve in the administration of the Department and of the Constitution Unit, and participate in and contribute to the intellectual community of both. The successful candidate will deepen existing areas of research focus within the Constitution Unit or extend that focus into other aspects of institutional politics in the UK.

The post is available full-time from 1 September 2026, open ended, and at Grade 8, with pay subject to negotiation.

About You

We are seeking applicants who hold or are near to completing a PhD in Political Science or related subject.

Candidates should have research expertise in British and Comparative political institutions and/or democracy. This could include, but is not limited to:

  • Legislatures

  • Judicial politics

  • Territorial politics and devolution

  • The executive and civil service

  • Institutions of public participation (electoral systems, referendums, citizens’ assemblies)

  • Public attitudes to democratic institutions

  • The role of the media in democracy

Candidates should have proven ability in, or potential for:

  • Excellent academic research

  • Politically impartial engagement with research users/beneficiaries outside academia

  • Teaching in British Politics and/or related modules

  • Administration at university level

Applicants should submit a CV and a supporting statement that specifically addresses the essential and desirable criteria set out in the person specification.

Please note that samples of written work are not required at this stage, and applicants are therefore requested not to upload any further supporting information other than the aforementioned documents.

It is currently expected that interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held in-person on 3 March 2026, though this is subject to change if necessary.

If prospective applicants have questions about the post, they are welcome to contact the chair of the appointment committee:
Professor Alan Renwick – a.renwick@ucl.ac.uk

Questions about the application process should be directed to:
polsci.staffing@ucl.ac.uk

What We Offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer great benefits, including:

  • 41 days holiday (including 27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays and 6 closure days)

  • Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)

  • Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan

  • On-site nursery

  • On-site gym

  • Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay

  • Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service

  • Discounted medical insurance

Further information is available at:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/reward-and-benefits

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent.

We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We encourage applications from those who are underrepresented in the sector and at UCL, including, but not exclusive to, disabled, D/deaf and neurodiverse people, LGBTQ+ people, people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, and women.

You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/

Apply