About the role

We are looking for an enthusiastic academic optometrist capable of inspiring interest, curiosity and drive for learning in our students to join the School of Healthcare. This post provides the opportunity for those wanting to be instrumental in promoting academic excellence and contributing to research-inspired teaching on our undergraduate Master of Optometry programme. You will be supported in your development by an experienced and cohesive teaching team that has been developing and delivering Healthcare education at the University of Leicester for nearly 20 years.

As a teaching focused Associate Professor of Optometry, you will engage in scholarship and innovation which enhances teaching and learning within the School and further establishes its external reputation. You will be instrumental in developing the new Master of Optometry programme, working closely with the Foundation Professor, wider School Executive and external parties such as the General Optical Council, College of Optometrists and industry. You will be expected to deliver excellent student support and pursue innovation and enhancement in student learning and experience with a view to ensuring outstanding student satisfaction.

Our approach to the academic career structure encourages a balance between breadth and specialisation. We highlight the central importance of teaching and research while encouraging all colleagues to develop their contributions to, and achievements in, areas such as citizenship and leadership.

About you

To be successful in this role you will be a qualified, GOC-registered optometrist and have experience of working within a UK healthcare setting and academia. You must hold degree in Optometry in addition to a PhD in a relevant/allied subject area. Additionally, you must have teaching experience in optometry education and programme development. The successful candidate will have experience of clinical supervision of students in practice education in the NHS, private, independent or voluntary sector, in addition to expertise that complements or enhances existing programmes/strengths within the department and themes within the College.

You will have a real passion for the subject matter and be motivated to provide the very best experience for our students using your expertise and skill to ensure all reach their potential. Furthermore, you will have an enthusiasm for novel teaching approaches and a preparedness for developing an innovative and forward-thinking programme. We are looking for someone who can network and collaborate at a regional and national level, with a commitment to teaching excellence, diversity, and our departmental community. You will have a determination to support development of a market-leading course in optometry with a high-standard national reputation

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Professor Christian French on [email protected]

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.