Professor in Systems Engineering

Overview

The University of Leicester is seeking a Professor in Systems Engineering within the Department of Engineering to provide strategic research leadership in an area of growing national and international importance. This full-time and permanent appointment represents a key investment in research excellence aimed at strengthening the institution's position as a national leader in space, energy, and digital/net zero engineering. The successful candidate will establish and lead a distinctive programme of world-leading research, contributing to the School of Engineering research groups in Digital Manufacturing and Management and Aerospace while building strong connections with Space Park Leicester.

The role focuses on advancing research in AI-driven Net Zero Engineering and Manufacturing, encompassing digital twins, artificial intelligence for manufacturing systems, and sustainable production in alignment with the UK Industrial Strategy and the Midlands manufacturing base. In addition to research leadership, the post holder will contribute to research-inspired teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, supervise postgraduate researchers, secure major research funding, and develop international research networks.

Who can apply

Applicants must be inspiring academics with an outstanding track record in systems engineering who hold a PhD or possess an equivalent industrial research background alongside recognised excellence within their discipline. Candidates need a sustained record of world-leading publications, a strong history of securing external research income, and clear evidence of producing research that positively impacts society, policy, industry, or practice.

Furthermore, applicants should bring extensive experience in supervising postgraduate researchers and supporting colleagues at all career stages, paired with a commitment to developing innovative, research-informed teaching. Candidates must demonstrate effective leadership and collaboration abilities, the capacity to motivate teams and contribute to strategic planning, and strong interpersonal and cross-disciplinary communication skills.

What you get

The position is offered as a full-time and permanent appointment based on site at the University of Leicester. The role provides an opportunity to shape the strategic direction of systems integration research across the School and College while collaborating with industry, government, and international partners.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is 2026-11-15.