Associate Professor in Public Policy

Applications are invited for an Associate Professor at the new Bennett School of Public Policy in the Faculty of Human, Social and Political Science (BSPP). The start date for this role will be July 2026.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the new Bennett School of Public Policy (BSPP) in its infancy https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk/. The BSPP has an ambitious growth plan including launching a new M.Phil in Digital Policy alongside an expanded M.Phil in Public Policy, and the development of a new PhD programme. The post-holder will play a leadership role for the M.Phil in Digital Policy. They will also provide teaching on the existing, highly successful M.Phil Programme in Public Policy.

Candidates will be expected to have a PhD in any relevant discipline. We are looking for scholars with an excellent track record in both research and teaching in any areas of public policy. We are happy to consider applicants from different disciplinary backgrounds. We particularly welcome candidates with a background in relevant technical and quantitative methods and expertise in relation to digital public policy and technological innovation more generally.

The successful candidate will have a record of research publications commensurate with the international reputation of the University of Cambridge. The candidate should show an outstanding record of publications, which may include published monographs or monographs nearing publication, that demonstrate a clear research trajectory and promise.

The candidate will be expected to provide at least 40 hours of lectures and seminars annually, supervise M.Phil dissertations, conduct small-group teaching (supervisions) and perform academic administration and examining.

The successful candidate is expected to contribute positively to the teaching of the BSPP. The Department is expanding the existing M.Phil in Public Policy and launching a new M.Phil in Digital Policy, expanding to around 100 students in the first instance. A new PhD programme will also be launched. The students are drawn from all over the world and from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds. The post-holder will: (i) deliver teaching for both M.Phil and the PhD programmes; (ii) take on a range of necessary administrative duties in the Dept; (iii) conduct original research of the highest international standards; (iv) contribute to other teaching where appropriate.

Candidates must be able to show evidence of research of international standing, demonstrate a willingness and ability to contribute collegially to the life of the new BSPP, and possess a flexible approach to teaching and administrative duties.

In order for applications to be considered applicants must upload:

• Covering letter, explaining the reasons for your application and how your knowledge, skills and experience match the requirements of the role you are applying for.
• A teaching statement, outlining your experience, interests, and approach to teaching both larger lectures and smaller groups.
• A research statement, outlining your plans for research, scholarship and grant capture over the next 5 years.
• If available two recently-published research articles.
• A Curriculum Vitae (CV), to include full details of educational qualifications and academic experience, a list of publications.

The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on 22nd February 2026 and interviews are expected to take place on 23rd March 2026, subject to change.

Further information about the BSPP can be found at: https://www.bennettschool.cam.ac.uk

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Applications should be made online. Applicants must provide the names and contact details of three referees who are familiar with their work.

Enquiries about applications should be addressed to Sarah Rosella, recruitment@bennettschool.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference JB48531 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a BAME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Apply online

Key information

Department/location

Department of Public Policy (Bennett School of Public Policy)

Salary

£63,606-£67,468

Reference

JB48531

Category

Academic

Date published

20 January 2026

Closing date

22 February 2026