OBU Jobs

Oxford Brookes University

Also known as: OBU

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Headington Rd, Headington, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
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OBU Employer Profile

🎓 Overview of Jobs at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University (OBU), located in the heart of Oxford, England, stands as a dynamic institution blending tradition with innovation. Established in 1865 as the Oxford School of Art and gaining university status in 1992, OBU has grown into a leading modern university with around 17,000 students across its Headington, Harcourt Hill, and Wheatley campuses. Known for its strong emphasis on employability—ranking in the UK top 30% for graduate outcomes—it attracts top talent for jobs at Oxford Brookes University in teaching, research, and professional services.

Jobs at Oxford Brookes University span academic, research, and support roles, contributing to its faculties in Business, Health and Life Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Technology, Design and Environment. The university's commitment to real-world impact, seen in partnerships with industries like motorsport engineering (home to the Oxford Brookes Racing team) and architecture, makes it an appealing employer. Whether you're eyeing lecturer jobs or administrative positions, opportunities here support career growth in a vibrant academic setting near the historic University of Oxford.

Types of Positions Available

Diverse jobs at Oxford Brookes University cater to various career stages. Academic roles include lecturers, senior lecturers, associate professors, and full professors, while research positions encompass postdoctoral researchers, research assistants, and fellows. Professional services cover HR, finance, IT, marketing, and student services. For a deeper dive into university job types, explore common higher education positions.

  • Academic Teaching Roles: Delivering lectures, seminars, and tutorials in fields like nursing, business management, or sustainable engineering.
  • Research Positions: Leading projects on topics such as climate change adaptation or health interventions.
  • Professional Services: Supporting operations, from library management to international recruitment.

Recent trends show growth in research jobs, driven by UK funding increases, as noted in recent QS World University Rankings highlighting UK leadership.

Key Requirements for Jobs at Oxford Brookes University

Required Academic Qualifications

For academic jobs at Oxford Brookes University, a PhD in a relevant field is standard for lecturers and above. Equivalent professional qualifications suffice for teaching-focused roles, such as in hospitality management where industry experience counts heavily. Professors typically hold a PhD plus extensive postdoctoral work.

Research Focus or Expertise Needed

OBU prioritizes research aligned with its strengths: biomedical sciences, publishing, and automotive engineering. Expertise in areas like digital health or urban planning is sought, often tied to UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) priorities.

Preferred Experience

Candidates shine with peer-reviewed publications (aim for 10+ for senior roles), grant capture (e.g., from EPSRC), and teaching evaluations above 80% satisfaction. Leadership in modules or supervision of PhD students boosts applications.

Skills and Competencies

Essential skills include advanced communication, digital literacy (e.g., VLE like Moodle), teamwork, and adaptability. Competencies in inclusive teaching and project management are key, reflecting OBU's student-centered approach.

Definitions

To clarify terms often encountered in jobs at Oxford Brookes University:

  • Lecturer: An academic role involving teaching undergraduates/postgraduates, research, and administration; entry-level for PhD holders.
  • Professor: Senior academic with national/international research reputation, leading departments and securing major funding.
  • Postdoctoral Researcher: Temporary position post-PhD for independent research, building publication portfolios.
  • Athena SWAN: UK charter recognizing gender equality efforts; OBU holds Silver awards across departments.
  • REF (Research Excellence Framework): UK assessment every 7 years evaluating research quality; OBU performs strongly in allied health.

📋 Application Process and Tips

The application for jobs at Oxford Brookes University starts on their careers portal. Submit a tailored CV (2-3 pages), cover letter (1 page addressing person spec), teaching philosophy, and research plan. Shortlisting uses competency-based criteria; interviews include presentations (20-30 mins) and panels.

  • Customize to OBU's values: sustainability, inclusivity, innovation.
  • Quantify achievements: 'Developed module increasing student retention by 15%.'
  • Prepare for values-based questions: 'Describe promoting EDI in teaching.'
  • Use free CV templates from AcademicJobs.com for academic formats.
  • Follow up post-interview; references checked pre-offer.

Success rate improves with networking via OBU events or academic CV tips. Salaries follow national scales: lecturers ~£38k-£46k, professors £65k+.

🌈 Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Oxford Brookes University champions equality through its EDI strategy. Holding Athena SWAN Silver (Business School, Health Sciences), it advances the Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident Leader status. Initiatives include:

  • BAME mentoring schemes pairing staff with seniors.
  • Gender pay audits and flexible recruitment for parents/carers.
  • Unconscious bias training mandatory for panels.
  • LGBTQ+ network events and accessible campus designs.

These foster an inclusive environment, with 25% BAME staff target by 2025 and support for neurodiversity via adjustments.

⚖️ Work-Life Balance and Campus Life

Staff at Oxford Brookes University benefit from a supportive culture emphasizing wellbeing. Standard 35-hour week, 30+ days annual leave, and hybrid options (2-3 office days). Campuses offer:

  • Sports centers, gym, pools, and free yoga classes.
  • On-site nurseries and family rooms.
  • Cycle schemes, EV charging, and mental health first-aiders.
  • Cafes, libraries, and green spaces in historic Oxford setting.

Events like staff awards and social committees build community. Proximity to city amenities aids balance, with low staff turnover reflecting satisfaction.

Why Pursue Jobs at Oxford Brookes University?

With rising UK university mergers like Greenwich-Kent super university, OBU remains stable and ambitious. Its focus on higher ed career advice aligns with professional development funds (£1k/year).

Ready to apply? Browse higher ed jobs, university jobs, and career advice. Employers can post a job to reach talent.

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What types of jobs are available at Oxford Brookes University?

Oxford Brookes University offers a range of positions including lecturers, professors, research associates, postdoctoral researchers, and professional services roles in administration, library services, and student support. Academic positions often require a PhD, while support roles may need relevant experience. For more on university job types, check our guide.

📚What qualifications are needed for lecturer jobs at Oxford Brookes University?

Lecturer positions at Oxford Brookes University typically require a PhD in the relevant field or equivalent professional experience, alongside teaching expertise and research output. Postgraduate certificates in education (PGCert) are often preferred.

🔬How does Oxford Brookes University support research careers?

The university emphasizes research in areas like health sciences, engineering, and business. Roles focus on expertise in sustainable technologies or biomedical research, with preferences for grant experience and publications.

📝What is the application process for jobs at Oxford Brookes University?

Applications involve submitting a CV, cover letter, and research/teaching statement via their portal. Tips include tailoring to OBU values, highlighting EDI commitment, and preparing for competency interviews.

🌍Does Oxford Brookes University have diversity initiatives?

Yes, OBU holds Athena SWAN Silver awards and runs programs like Race Equality Charter commitments, supporting underrepresented groups through mentoring and inclusive recruitment.

🏫What is campus life like for staff at Oxford Brookes University?

Staff enjoy vibrant campuses in Oxford with sports facilities, nurseries, flexible hours, and wellness programs. Proximity to historic Oxford enhances work-life balance.

👨‍🏫Are there professor jobs at Oxford Brookes University?

Professor roles require senior expertise, a strong publication record, leadership in research, and PhD supervision experience. Salaries align with UK academic scales.

📊What skills are essential for research assistant jobs at OBU?

Key skills include data analysis, lab techniques, project management, and communication. Experience with funding bodies like UKRI is advantageous.

How competitive are jobs at Oxford Brookes University?

Competition is high due to OBU's reputation for employability (top 30% UK) and Oxford location. Strong applications stand out with specific examples of impact.

⚖️What support does OBU offer for work-life balance?

Benefits include 35-hour weeks, generous leave, hybrid working, childcare, and mental health support, fostering a supportive environment.

✈️Can international candidates apply for OBU jobs?

Yes, with visa sponsorship for eligible roles. Check higher ed jobs for global opportunities.
9 Jobs Found

Oxford Brookes University

Headington Rd, Headington, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
Staff / Administration
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Closes: Mar 22, 2026