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The Ruskin – Museum & Research Institute Invites Applications for Research Theme Leads

The work of the epoch-defining writer, artist, environmentalist and social thinker John Ruskin (1819-1900) addresses four UKRI Strategic Themes: green futures, resilience, improving opportunities and equalities, and securing better wellbeing for all. Lancaster University’s The Ruskin – Museum and Research Institute holds the world-leading collection of works by Ruskin.

 

We are currently inviting applications for specialist and cross-disciplinary Theme Leads. Theme Leads will work closely with the Director of The Ruskin to help to shape and deliver interdisciplinary research linked to the Collection. The roles are open to Lancaster University academic staff from any faculty, with a strong track record and clear commitment to collaborative research. Visit the website to find out more about The Ruskin’s Research Projects.

Key Responsibilities
  • Research leadership & community building: articulate a compelling vision; grow an interdisciplinary community across departments and external partners.
  • Programme delivery: organise seminar series, exhibitions and related activities.
  • Grant & impact pipeline: coordinate targeted bid development (e.g. UKRI and philanthropic), support impact case studies and policy engagement.
  • Mentoring & culture: mentor ECRs, champion EDI, and develop opportunities for students, PGRs and postdocs.
  • Institute stewardship: contribute to The Ruskin’s key programmes as part of The Ruskin’s Leadership Team.
Time Commitment
  • Commitment: 0.2 FTE (one day/week) as a guideline; flexible start; three-year term.
  • Resources: theme activity budget
Person Specification (selection criteria)
  • Vision & fit: clear, credible agenda for one  of the specialist and cross-disciplinary Theme Leads and alignment with The Ruskin’s Mission and Values.
  • Track record: outputs, funding, or translation/engagement relevant to The Ruskin research fields.
  • Leadership & mentoring: evidence of leading interdisciplinary activity and supporting others.
  • Delivery plan: realistic milestones for proposed research and outreach activities and measurable outcomes (events, bids, partnerships).
  • Collegiality & EDI: commitment to inclusive leadership and culture.

How to Apply

Submit (i) a two-page statement outlining your vision for the theme and relevant track record and experience for one of the specialist and cross-disciplinary Theme Leads and alignment with the key responsibilities and person specification  (ii) a CV. Please confirm in your statement that you have discussed the time commitment with your Head of Department/School and obtained agreement in principle.

Interested prospective candidates are asked to contact Professor Sandra Kemp, Director, The Ruskin – Museum & Research Institute  for more information.

Applications to the-ruskin@lancaster.ac.uk  with the subject line ‘Ruskin Theme Lead Application’.

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