Royal Agricultural University (RAU), located in Cirencester, England, is the United Kingdom's oldest and smallest specialist university dedicated to agriculture, land, real estate, environment, and rural business. With a rich history dating back to 1845 as the Royal Agricultural College, RAU became a full university in 2013. Jobs at Royal Agricultural University attract professionals passionate about sustainable farming, equine science, food production, and rural entrepreneurship. The institution employs around 300 staff, offering roles in teaching, research, administration, and support services. Academic positions emphasize practical, industry-focused education, blending traditional farming knowledge with modern sustainability practices. RAU's small size fosters a close-knit community, ideal for those seeking impactful roles in higher education.
Working at RAU means contributing to an institution ranked highly for student satisfaction in agriculture-related fields. Faculty and staff engage with a 500-hectare farm campus, providing hands-on opportunities. Salaries are competitive for the sector, with lecturer jobs starting at approximately £38,000-£46,000, rising with experience. Explore university jobs for similar opportunities across the UK.
Royal Agricultural University traces its roots to 1845, when it was established as the Royal Agricultural College by private subscription to advance agricultural education. It received its Royal Charter from Queen Victoria in 1845, making it the first agricultural college in the English-speaking world. Over the years, RAU evolved, gaining degree-awarding powers in 1999 and full university status in 2013. Today, it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in agriculture, equine science, real estate, food and agribusiness, environment, and rural entrepreneurship. This legacy shapes jobs at RAU, where staff contribute to pioneering research in sustainable land use and rural development. The university's farm-based campus supports practical teaching and research, unique in the UK higher education landscape.
Jobs at Royal Agricultural University span academic, research, and professional services. Faculty roles include lecturers and professors in departments like Land, Farm and Agribusiness Management, and Equine Science. Research assistant jobs focus on projects in sustainable agriculture and rural policy. Administration jobs cover HR, finance, and student services. Specialist positions like farm managers leverage the campus's 530-hectare estate. For a full list, visit university job types.
Remote higher ed jobs are limited but available in some admin roles; see remote higher ed jobs.
Agricultural Education: Training in farming practices, land management, and rural business, emphasizing sustainable methods at RAU.
Equine Science: Study of horse breeding, health, and management, a key focus for jobs at RAU's equestrian programs.
Rural Entrepreneurship: Developing businesses in countryside settings, central to RAU's agribusiness degrees and research roles.
Sustainable Agriculture: Farming that meets current needs without compromising future generations, core to RAU research jobs.
To secure jobs at Royal Agricultural University, candidates need specific qualifications. Academic roles typically require a PhD in agriculture, environmental science, or related fields. Research focus areas include sustainable farming systems, equine welfare, real estate valuation, and rural policy. Preferred experience encompasses publications in journals like the Journal of Agricultural Economics, grant funding from UKRI, and teaching at undergraduate level.
Key skills include data analysis for research jobs, communication for lecturer positions, and project management for admin roles. Competencies like teamwork, innovation in sustainability, and industry connections are valued. For lecturer jobs, a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCHE) is advantageous. See become a university lecturer for earning potential insights.
The application process for jobs at Royal Agricultural University starts with searching openings on AcademicJobs.com or RAU's careers site. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter, and research statement. Use how to write a winning academic CV for best practices.
Tips: Emphasize practical experience with farms or rural projects. Prepare for panel interviews focusing on teaching philosophy.
RAU champions diversity through its EDI strategy, holding Athena SWAN Bronze, promoting women in STEM agriculture. Initiatives include mentorship for underrepresented groups, accessible facilities, and inclusive hiring. The university partners with organizations for ethnic minority support in rural sectors. Staff training on unconscious bias ensures equitable opportunities. RAU's rural location fosters inclusive community events. Learn more from employer branding secrets.
Campus life at RAU offers excellent work-life balance in scenic Cirencester, Gloucestershire. The 530-hectare farm campus provides green spaces, equestrian facilities, and sports clubs. Flexible hours, hybrid work for some roles, and wellness programs like yoga and counseling support staff. Annual leave is generous, with family-friendly policies. Social events include farm walks and staff balls. Proximity to London (2 hours) aids commuting. RAU's small size (1,100 students) creates a supportive environment. Read postdoctoral success for thriving tips.
In summary, jobs at Royal Agricultural University offer rewarding careers in agriculture and rural studies. Explore higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job on AcademicJobs.com for more opportunities.
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