Full-Time, Permanent.
Head of Department role: 5-year term, renewable for up to 3 additional years (subject to performance), after which the post holder will continue in the permanent academic role.
Royal Holloway, University of London, is seeking exceptional candidates for the position of Head of the Department of Computing, Security and Mathematics. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced academic leader to help shape a new department from three vibrant, ambitious and internationally recognised disciplinary groups.
The Department of Computing, Security and Mathematics is newly-formed, comprising of disciplinary activities from the fields of Computer Science, Information Security and Mathematics. Our community comprises around 100 academic colleagues and over 1,000 postdoctoral researchers, postgraduate and undergraduate students. Our research areas include:
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Algorithms and Complexity
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Intelligent Systems
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Reliable Machine Learning
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Programming Languages and Systems
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Cryptography
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(Security of) People and Society in a Digital World
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Systems Security
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Security of Smart Cards and Internet of Things
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Discrete Mathematics
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Algebra and Number Theory
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Probability and Statistics
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Quantum Theory and Quantum Information
As Head of Department, you will translate the strategic ambitions of Royal Holloway’s RH2030s Strategy into clear, actionable departmental plans. You will lead their delivery and be responsible for the department’s academic direction, financial sustainability, operational effectiveness, and overall success. You will also be accountable for effective resource allocation, workforce planning and ensuring the department’s long-term financial sustainability in line with University priorities.
Working closely with colleagues, you will ensure meaningful contributions to the University’s Strategic Performance Indicators (SPIs), Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and Strategic Action Plans.
You will shape the department's disciplinary identity and future development in partnership with academic colleagues and Professional Service teams, ensuring that the department’s values, priorities and operating approach are aligned with our vision to be a University of Social Purpose. You will also lead the effective planning, resource allocation and operational management, creating the conditions for innovation and excellence in research, education and student experience and outcomes. This includes oversight of student recruitment planning, promoting active student engagement and supporting continuous improvement informed by feedback such as NSS outcomes.
You will ensure the department is fully prepared for external assessments including REF, TEF and KEF, working in close partnership with the Faculty Dean and Associate Deans.
You will foster a culture that reflects our mission - championing inclusion, belonging and a supportive environment for colleagues and students alike. You will provide clear, values‑led leadership and support the development, performance and wellbeing of academic staff, encouraging excellence, collaboration and accountability. As a part of the Faculty Executive, you will help strengthen collaboration across the Faculty of Science and maximise opportunities arising from the University’s new academic structures.
You will also ensure the Department operates in line with University policies and regulatory requirements, maintaining high standards of compliance in areas such as health and safety, ethics, data governance and codes of practice.
This role represents a significant opportunity within one of the University’s newly established departments, offering the chance to create the conditions for exceptional performance across research, education, and external engagement.
Who we are looking for
Applicants should demonstrate:
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A strong track record of leadership within higher education (e.g., prior head of department experience or equivalent).
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Excellence in research, evidenced by a world-class publication record and successful grant capture.
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A track record of contribution to high-quality education and student experience.
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Expertise that either complements or strengthens one of our existing areas of strength in research.
The post is based in our beautiful Egham campus in Surrey, near Windsor Great Park and within commuting distance of London. We also offer a highly competitive rewards and benefits package including:
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Generous annual leave entitlement
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Training and Development opportunities
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Pension Scheme with generous employer contribution
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Various schemes including Cycle to Work, Season Ticket Loans, and help with the cost of eyesight testing
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Free parking
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Prof. Hanna Zagefka, Faculty Dean, Faculty of Science: [email protected]
The RHUL Recruitment Team can be contacted with queries by email at [email protected]
Please quote the reference: 0526-147
Closing Date: 23:59, Friday 19 June 2026
Interview Date: Tuesday 14 July 2026
Details about the selection process and timeline will be shared with candidates soon after the deadline.
(Note we are seeking applicants to demonstrate how they match with criteria noted in both the Head of Department and Professor Person Specifications within the two job descriptions)
