The University of Abertay Dundee, commonly known as Abertay University, is a public university in Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom. Established in 1888 as the Dundee Technical Institute, it gained full university status in 1994 and has since built a reputation for innovation, particularly in computer games and ethical hacking. Jobs at Abertay University span academic, research, and professional roles, attracting talent passionate about cutting-edge fields. With around 5,000 students and a focus on employability, the university emphasizes practical skills and industry partnerships, making it an appealing employer for those seeking dynamic careers in higher education.
Abertay's strategic location in Dundee, a compact city with low living costs and high quality of life, enhances its appeal. The university ranks highly for graduate employability, with 96% of graduates in work or further study six months after graduation (according to recent HESA data). This success stems from strong ties with industries like gaming giants (e.g., Rockstar North) and cybersecurity firms. Academic positions here often involve teaching small classes, conducting impactful research, and contributing to Scotland's knowledge economy.
Jobs at Abertay University include lecturer positions, senior lectureships, professorships, research associates, postdoctoral researchers, and support roles in administration or technical services. Faculty jobs dominate in schools like the School of Design, Media & Management; School of Science, Engineering & Computing; and Abertay Business School. For instance, lecturer jobs in computer arts require expertise in game design, while biomedical sciences roles focus on drug discovery.
Research jobs are prominent in areas like ethical hacking—Abertay pioneered the world's first MSc in Computer Forensics and Security. Postdoctoral positions often involve projects funded by UKRI or industry, such as AI in gaming or sustainable food science. Administrative jobs cover student services, HR, and facilities, supporting the university's compact campus. Learn more about university job types available across institutions like Abertay.
To understand jobs at Abertay University fully, key terms include:
For academic jobs at Abertay University, a PhD in a relevant field is standard for lecturers and above. Research focus aligns with strategic priorities: Division of Games and Arts (world-renowned for game design), Centre for Ethical Hacking (cybersecurity), and Centre for Master's in Research (drug discovery). Preferred experience includes peer-reviewed publications (e.g., 5+ in high-impact journals), teaching portfolios, and grant success (e.g., EPSRC funding).
Key skills and competencies:
Entry-level research jobs may accept master's holders with strong potential, but senior roles demand proven impact, such as REF 2021 contributions where Abertay excelled in allied health.
The application process for jobs at Abertay University starts with monitoring their careers portal and sites like jobs.ac.uk. Submit a tailored CV (2-3 pages), cover letter (1 page), and statements on research/teaching visions. Interviews often include presentations and panel discussions.
Actionable tips:
Timeline: Applications close 4-6 weeks post-advert; offers follow 2-3 months. Remote initial stages possible, but relocation to Dundee expected.
Abertay University champions diversity through its Athena SWAN Bronze award (renewed 2022), targeting 40% women in senior roles by 2025. The EDI (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion) team runs mentoring for BAME staff, LGBTQ+ networks, and disability access audits. Examples include the Women in Games forum and partnerships with Stonewall for ally training. International recruitment supports 20% non-UK staff, with visa assistance. These efforts create an inclusive environment, reflected in staff surveys showing high satisfaction.
Abertay promotes work-life balance with 35-hour weeks, 40 days annual leave, hybrid options (up to 40% remote), and childcare vouchers. Wellness includes gym access, EAP counseling, and cycle-to-work schemes. Campus life in Dundee features modern facilities like the £7.3m Kydd Building for games, riverside location, and events like staff sports clubs. Proximity to Edinburgh (1 hour by train) and Glasgow adds cultural perks. Dundee's 'coolest little city' vibe (NY Times) offers festivals, V&A museum, and affordable housing (£700/month average rent).
Staff testimonials highlight collaborative culture and quick career progression, with 80% retention rate.
Professional growth includes funded PhD supervision, sabbaticals every 5 years, and leadership programs. Abertay's Research, Innovation & Impact Office supports grant bids, with £5m+ annual funding. Ties to research jobs in Scotland enhance opportunities.
Recent hires note mentorship from experts like Professor David Crookes in cybersecurity.
Abertay stands out for pioneering programs: first UK Ethical Hacking BSc (2005). Salaries competitive (lecturers £40k-£50k starting), with USS pension. In Scotland's thriving tech scene, roles contribute to national goals like net-zero by 2045.
Explore employer branding secrets or academic CV tips. For openings, check higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting.
View all University Jobs
Post and Connect – the new way of promoting your higher ed jobs
