Professor and Head of Department of Architecture

Professor and Head of Department of Architecture

Applications are invited for the appointment as Professor and Head of the Department of Architecture (Ref.: 536466). The appointment as Professor will be on tenure terms, with the appointment as Head of Department will be made for an initial three-year term, renewable subject to mutual agreement. The most highly qualified applicants may be considered for the appointment as Chair Professor.

We seek an academic leader with a proven record of excellence in research, teaching, knowledge exchange, and managerial competence and a strong commitment to the Department’s and University’s missions and services and community engagement.

The University of Hong Kong

Founded in 1911, the University of Hong Kong has attained its pre-eminence as a research-led comprehensive university through upholding the highest international standards of excellence in its research pursuits, scholarship, teaching and learning, and service to the community. The University is consistently ranked amongst the world’s top universities: 11th in QS World University Rankings 2026, 1st in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026 and 33rd in Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. In recent years, the University was ranked multiple times as the most international University in the world.

Department of Architecture

The Department of Architecture is internationally recognised as one of the world's most reputable architectural schools. The Department prides itself on providing a rigorous and dynamic research environment, with scholars and professionals who have a diversity of research interests.

Staff members take an active part in shaping the Department's culture through both teaching and administrative responsibilities as part of both our undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Our international community of students come from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia, and across the world. Information about the Department can be obtained at http://arch.hku.hk.

The Role

The Head of the Department of Architecture is expected to:

• Provide visionary leadership and strategic direction to guide the Department’s development and ensure alignment with the University’s goals.
• Advance the Department’s global profile through international collaborations, exchange programmes, and participation in global academic networks.
• Enhance research activities by encouraging grant applications, supporting early-career researchers, and fostering international collaborations.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the Department.
• Lead talent recruitment, retention, and staff development through innovative strategies and career development initiatives.
• Oversee student admission and quality assurance, promoting excellence in teaching, student success, and employability.
• Represent the Department externally, building and leveraging networks to support its growth and strategic objectives.

Qualifications and Qualities

• Internationally recognised standing in the discipline of architecture.
• Distinguished record of academic achievements in research, scholarship, and teaching.
• Demonstrated track record of innovative architectural practice.
• Proven experience in leadership and university-level administration.
• Strong international network and demonstrated ability to secure research funding.
• Effective interpersonal communication skills and a high standard of personal integrity.

For enquiries about the post, please write to foaapp@hku.hk.

Compensation and Benefits

A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, together with University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme at 15% of basic salary. Other benefits include annual leave and professional leave, medical benefits, and free access to on-campus gyms and libraries. Housing benefits will be provided as applicable.

Application

The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date C.V., a cover letter, a research and teaching portfolio (less than 20MB, 20 pages maximum), and an outline of strategic vision as the Head of the Department of Architecture. Review of applications will begin as soon as possible and continue until September 1, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.