Assistant Professor (Practice) in Forensic Science

Northumbria University - School of Geography and Natural Science

Placed On: 24th February 2026

Closes: 22nd March 2026

Job Ref: 3944

The School of Geography and Natural Science is at an inflection point. Following major institutional investment and strategic reorganisation, we are building one of the UK's leading forensic science research groups. This is a rare opportunity to:

• Develop and apply contemporary forensic science practice to enrich teaching and curriculum
• Contribute to the development of degree programmes, teaching practice, and professional links
• Benefit from mentoring and support as part of a growing team—we welcome group hire applications
• Access dedicated facilities including a Crime Scene House, in-house multi-omics capabilities (genomics, metabolomics, proteomics), high-performance computing for bioinformatics, and expert technical support

What We're Looking For

For these roles we seek practitioners and educators who can bring contemporary forensic science practice into the classroom, driving excellence in teaching, learning, and professional engagement.

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• Professional forensic science practice—streamlined forensic reporting, expert witness testimony, and courtroom experience
• Forensic analysis and interpretation—biological, chemical, digital, or trace evidence
• Allied disciplines—forensic genomics, metabolomics, proteomics, environmental forensics, wildlife crime, or digital investigation

This list is not exhaustive. We encourage applications from candidates whose work complements or extends our existing strengths. The role description and person specification for this role can be found here.

Essential Requirements

• A first degree in a relevant discipline and specialist knowledge gained through a PhD or equivalent professional practice
• Experience contributing to high-quality academic or professional teaching, learning, and assessment in forensic science or related disciplines
• Substantial professional experience and/or evidence of standing within the forensic science profession, with a commitment to excellent practice-informed teaching
• Commitment to supporting an excellent and inclusive student experience

What We Offer

• Academic leadership opportunities in a growing School during a period of strategic investment
• Competitive salary
• Access to research funding, mentorship programmes, and career development support
• State-of-the-art facilities including dedicated Crime Scene House, multi-omics laboratories, and high-performance computing
• Supportive, collegial culture with Athena SWAN Bronze award and commitment to diversity and inclusion
• Excellent pension schemes, flexible working arrangements, generous holiday entitlement
• Relocation assistance available for successful candidates—we welcome applications from the UK and internationally

About the School

The School of Geography and Natural Science is a vibrant, research-intensive environment with 130 academic staff, 40 technical staff, 60 postdoctoral researchers, 150 PhD students, and 3,000 taught students.

Our research strengths span Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, Cell and Molecular Sciences, Chemistry and Forensic Sciences, Environmental Sciences, and Human Geography. We lead four of the University's nine peaks of research excellence and rank 2nd in the UK for research power in Geography and Environmental Studies (REF 2021).

Our extensive laboratory estate includes facilities for analytical and synthetic chemistry, molecular biology, genomics, mass spectrometry, chromatography, materials analysis, and a microscopy and bio-imaging suite. We are partners in the Northern Eye cryo-electron microscopy facility and host the Research England-funded Hub for Biotechnology in the Built Environment.

How to Apply

To apply, click 'Apply Now' on our website and submit:

• A covering letter explaining your interest and fit for the role
• Full CV including research and education statements
• List of research funding (with grant title, funder, amount, and your role)
• Your four best research outputs since 2021
• PDFs of your top two publications

For informal discussions about this role or group hire opportunities, please contact Professor Andy Shepherd (Andrew.shepherd@northumbria.ac.uk), Head of School.