The University of Exeter is a prestigious public research university located in Exeter, Devon, England, United Kingdom. As a member of the Russell Group, it is renowned for its world-class research and teaching excellence across a wide range of disciplines. Established with a royal charter in 1955, the university has roots dating back to 1900 through its predecessor institutions. With campuses in Exeter and Penryn, Cornwall, it serves over 25,000 students and employs thousands of staff in academic, research, and administrative roles. Jobs at University of Exeter attract professionals seeking impactful careers in higher education, offering opportunities to contribute to groundbreaking research in areas like climate science, renewable energy, and medical advancements.
Exeter's commitment to sustainability is evident in its Platinum Athena SWAN award and net-zero ambitions by 2030. The university ranks among the top 150 globally (QS World University Rankings 2024) and top 15 in the UK for research power (REF 2021). For those interested in higher ed jobs, Exeter provides a dynamic environment blending historic charm with modern facilities.
The University of Exeter's history began in 1900 with the opening of the Exeter Technical and University Extension College. It evolved into the University College of the South West of England in 1922 and received full university status in 1955. Key milestones include the establishment of the Cornwall Campus in Penryn in 2004, partnerships with the University of Cornwall, and expansions in medical and environmental sciences. This evolution has shaped jobs at University of Exeter, from early teaching posts to today's research-intensive positions funded by major grants like UKRI and Horizon Europe.
Historically, the university has been a hub for innovation, with alumni including Nobel laureates and leaders in policy. Today, its heritage influences hiring, prioritizing candidates who align with its mission of societal impact through education and research.
University of Exeter boasts six colleges: Humanities, Social Sciences and International Studies, Life and Environmental Sciences, Medical School, University of Exeter Business School, and Engineering, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences. Popular programs include Law, Psychology, and Business Management. Research strengths lie in the Environment and Sustainability Institute (ESI) and the Living Systems Institute, driving jobs in interdisciplinary fields.
Jobs at University of Exeter span teaching-focused lecturer roles to research-heavy professor positions. For an overview of university job types, including faculty and support staff, visit our dedicated page.
Academic positions include Lecturer (entry-level teaching and research), Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor (leadership roles with grant management). Research jobs feature Postdoctoral Research Associates (PDRAs), Research Fellows, and Technicians. Administrative roles cover HR, finance, and student services. Explore faculty jobs or postdoc opportunities for current listings.
Salaries are competitive, with lecturers starting at £41,732 and professors up to £84,000+. Check university salaries for details.
For jobs at University of Exeter, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in the relevant field is typically required for research and lecturing roles. Postdoctoral experience (1-3 years) is preferred for PDRAs, while senior positions demand a proven track record of publications in high-impact journals like Nature or The Lancet.
Research focus areas include climate modelling (e.g., ESI projects on global warming), quantum technologies, and cancer research. Preferred experience encompasses grant writing (e.g., EPSRC funding), international collaborations, and teaching excellence (e.g., student feedback scores above 4/5).
Key skills and competencies:
Technical competencies vary by department, such as GIS for geography roles or MATLAB for engineering.
Russell Group: A association of 24 leading UK universities committed to maintaining the highest standards in research and teaching. PhD: Doctor of Philosophy, the highest academic degree, involving original research. PDRAs: Postdoctoral Research Associates, early-career researchers post-PhD. Athena SWAN: Charter recognizing gender equality efforts in STEM. REF: Research Excellence Framework, UK assessment of research quality.
To apply for jobs at University of Exeter, visit their careers portal at exeter.ac.uk/jobs. Submit a tailored CV, cover letter (1-2 pages), research statement, and teaching portfolio. Interviews often include presentations and panel discussions.
Actionable tips:
Timeline: Applications reviewed within 4 weeks; roles start term-time.
University of Exeter champions diversity through its EDI Strategy 2020-2025, targeting 50% women in senior roles by 2025. They hold institutional Silver Athena SWAN and Stonewall Diversity Champion status. Initiatives include unconscious bias training, BAME mentoring, and accessible recruitment. Staff networks support LGBTQ+ and disabilities, fostering an inclusive environment for jobs at University of Exeter.
Exeter prioritizes staff wellbeing with flexible working, 35-hour weeks, 27-35 days holiday, and occupational health support. The Exeter campus features gardens, sports centre, and childcare; Penryn offers coastal vibes with eco-friendly living. Social life includes clubs, seminars, and family events. Generous pensions (USS scheme) and mental health resources enhance balance. Recent staff surveys report 85% satisfaction with work-life integration.
Exeter leads in green hydrogen and AI for climate prediction. Recent news includes breakthroughs in Alzheimer's chemistry capture (read more) and hydrogen from plastic waste (details). These drive new research jobs.
Campus safety remains priority, as seen in recent incidents like UMass Lowell lockdown, emphasizing proactive measures at Exeter.
Joining University of Exeter means contributing to global challenges in a supportive, innovative setting. With strong funding (£400m+ research income), career progression, and beautiful locations, it's ideal for academics. Explore higher ed jobs, university jobs, and career advice. Ready to apply? Check post a job for employers or browse openings today.
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