Professor and Director - East Asia Institute

Overview

The UCL East Asia Institute is seeking a Professor and Director to provide academic and strategic leadership for the newly established institute. Founded in 1826 in London, UCL brings together a large community of staff and students engaged in multidisciplinary teaching and research. The Institute connects and amplifies UCL expertise across China, Japan, and and South Korea by uniting academics from eleven faculties to support regional and linguistic depth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global engagement.

Who can apply

Candidates must be outstanding academic leaders with a distinguished international reputation, an appropriate record of excellence for a professorial appointment, and expertise relating to East Asia. Applicants need experience leading ambitious research, educational, and strategic initiatives within a research-intensive environment. Additional requirements include an excellent track record of internationally recognized research and publication, significant success in securing major external research funding, and the ability to build collaborations across disciplinary boundaries. Experience in establishing new academic initiatives, developing international partnerships, and securing philanthropic or alternative income streams is considered advantageous.

What you get

The role is offered as a full-time and permanent position with a hybrid work arrangement. The salary ranges from £82,000 per annum, and the position includes access to a range of excellent benefits detailed on the employer reward and benefits webpages.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 4 December 2026.