Psychology, Health & Clinical Sci School
Location:
Aston University Main Campus
Salary:
£61,759 to £104,712
per annum
Grade:
Band 01
Contract Type:
Permanent
Basis:
Full Time
Closing Date:
23.59 hours BST on Sunday 20 September 2026
Interview Date:
Friday 16 October 2026
Reference:
1142-26
Release Date:
Tuesday 04 August 2026
Aston School of Optometry is seeking to appoint a motivated and talented senior academic colleague to join our community as a Reader/ Professor of Optometry .
This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving academic community, celebrating ‘100 Years of Optometry’ at Aston in 2026. The successful candidate will contribute to our ambitious research strategy while shaping the next generation of optometrists through research-informed teaching in a supportive, collaborative and innovative environment.
About the Role
As a senior academic with expertise in the posterior segment of the eye (including ocular disease and/or ophthalmic imaging), you will provide leadership in research, education and academic citizenship. You will develop and lead an internationally recognised programme of research, secure competitive external funding, publish high-quality research outputs and supervise/ mentor doctoral students and early career researchers.
You will contribute to the design, delivery and continuous enhancement of undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, ensuring students benefit from an inclusive, research-informed educational experience.
Person Specification
We are seeking an ambitious and collaborative academic with a strong track record in posterior segment research (ocular disease and/or ophthalmic imaging.) You will have a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, an established record of internationally recognised research excellence, evidence of securing competitive external research funding, and a strong publication profile.
You will have experience of teaching and curriculum development in higher education, with a commitment to delivering an outstanding, inclusive and research-led student experience. UK registration as an optometrist would be advantageous but is not essential.
This role is likely to qualify for endorsement under the Endorsed Funder route of the Global Talent visa. This visa is for talented or promising individuals in academia or research in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, social sciences, or humanities.
See the Home Office guidance: https://www.gov.uk/global-talent
The University celebrates the rights of freedom of speech and academic freedom and is committed to maintaining and protecting these rights within the law. An offer to work at Aston University will never be denied on the basis of an individual’s lawful expression of their beliefs, ideas or opinions.
Aston University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. It promotes equality and diversity in all aspects of its work. We strive to have robust inclusivity strategies in place, to encourage colleagues to have the confidence and freedom to be themselves in the workplace. For more information, visit: https://www2.aston.ac.uk/about/inclusive-aston
Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications
While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.
We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.
If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at
[email protected]