The Open University
About The Open University
Basic information and contact details for The Open University
The Open University (OU), headquartered in Milton Keynes, England, was the world’s first higher education distance learning institution.
With a mission to be ‘open to people, places, methods and ideas’, the university was founded to give those who had missed out on attending traditional universities, the opportunity to experience high quality degree-level learning.
It dates back to 1964, when former leader of the Labour Party, Harold Wilson, made it a general election manifesto pledge. When Wilson was elected Prime Minister, he tasked Minister for the Arts, Jennie Lee, with overseeing the delivery of the project. In 1965, a committee of educationalists, university vice-chancellors and television broadcasters was formed and in 1969, the OU was launched.
With almost 200,000 registered students, the OU is the largest academic institution in the UK and, apart from a small number of post-graduate research students, most OU students study off-campus.
It has a network of more than 5,000 tutors and uses communications technology to deliver teaching and assessment. The OU also run group tutorials, day schools and residential summer schools. Since its inception it has welcomed over 1.8 million students.
The university boasts a longstanding partnership with the BBC, co-producing up to 25 TV and radio series a year (recent examples include: Britain's Great War, Wartime Farm, Stargazing Live and Bang Goes the Theory).
The OU is a cultural institution in its own right, having featured in the plot lines of several British radio and TV series, such as The Archers, Brookside, Birds of a Feather and Life on Mars, while the award-winning actress Julie Walters’ first major film role was playing an OU student alongside Michael Caine in Educating Rita.
It is also one of only a few universities to have won the quiz show University Challenge on more than one occasion (in 1985 and 1999).
Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, broadcaster Anna Ford and the actress Glenda Jackson are among a host of well-known names who have tutored for the OU.
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Key Student Statistics
A breakdown of student statistics at The Open University
- Student gender ratio
- 67 F : 33 M (1)
- International student percentage
- 9% (1)
- Students per staff
- 22.7 (1)
- Student total
- 70690 (1)
Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2026
Jobs you might be interested in
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Research Fellow (Sound and Vibration) - ATCH2
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Singapore
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Singapore
Cluster: Engineering Job Purpose We are seeking a Research Fellow at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to undertake high-quality applied research for a funded project at the Singapore Institute of Technology aimed at advancing understanding of lift-generated noise in residential buildings. The role supports the achievement of the grantor’s objectives and proposed research outcomes through rigorous investigation, close collaboration with the PI and research team, and the development of industry-relevant insights for the built environment sector. We are looking for a passionate and detail-oriented researcher who is committed to producing careful, high-quality technical work. The primary responsibility of this role is to plan and execute field measurements and analytical investigations of lift traction motor noise and vibration in residential buildings, including conducting sound intensity and vibration measurements, analysing acousto-structural transmission paths, developing predictive models, and producing research outputs that support practical noise mitigation solutions for the built environment industry. Key Responsibilities Participate in and manage the research project with the Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI, and research team members to ensure that all technical milestones and project deliverables are achieved. Undertake the following responsibilities in the project: i. Plan and conduct field measurements of lift traction motor noise and vibration in residential buildings using sound intensity probes, accelerometers, and multi-channel data acquisition systems. ii. Perform signal processing, vibration analysis, and acousto-structural transmission path investigations to identify dominant noise sources and structural coupling mechanisms. iii. Develop and implement measurement protocols, experimental setups, and data acquisition procedures for airborne and structure-borne noise studies. iv. Analyse measurement data using specialised acoustic and vibration analysis software, and develop predictive or simulation models to interpret noise propagation and structural vibration behaviour. v. Prepare technical reports, research publications, and presentations to disseminate findings to academic, industry, and funding stakeholders. vi. Assist in the development of mitigation strategies or engineering guidelines to reduce lift-related noise transmission in residential environments. Coordinate site access, field measurements, and technical discussions with project collaborators, industry partners, and building stakeholders. Coordinate procurement of equipment, liaison with vendors/suppliers, and ensure proper calibration, operation, and maintenance of measurement instrumentation. Carry out laboratory and project risk assessments, and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health (WSH) regulations during field measurements and experimental work. Co-supervise undergraduate student projects related to acoustics and vibration measurements when required. Work independently, as well as within a multidisciplinary research team, to ensure timely completion of project tasks and research outputs. To communicate in any relevant internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any ad-hoc duties assigned by Supervisor. Job Requirements PhD in Acoustics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field. Have relevant competence in acoustics, vibration, and structural dynamics. Familiarity with signal processing and vibration/acoustic analysis techniques. Experience with data analysis using tools such as MATLAB, Python, or equivalent engineering software. Experience with experimental and instrumentation measurements setup for noise and vibration (e.g., sound intensity probes, vibration sensors, or similar instrumentation) involving microphones and accelerometers, or multi-channel data acquisition systems will be advantageous. Knowledge of building acoustics, structure-borne noise, or machinery vibration will be advantageous. Prior research experience with peer-reviewed publications in acoustics, noise control, or vibration engineering will be advantageous. Key Competencies Possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills in solving engineering and research problems. Proficient in technical writing and presentation for reports, publications, and stakeholder communication. Able to work independently while also contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary research team. Demonstrate strong initiative and take ownership of assigned research tasks and project deliverables. Able to organise and manage field measurements, instrumentation setup, and experimental data collection. Good problem-solving ability in addressing technical issues encountered during experiments or measurements. Able to build and maintain effective working relationships with project collaborators, industry partners, and research staff. Self-directed learner who is committed to continuous learning and professional development. Self-directed learner who believes in continuous learning and development. Proficient in technical writing and presentation. Possess strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Show strong initiative and take ownership of work.
Salary
Competitive
Posted
20 Mar 2026
University Assistant PraeDoc, Chemistry
University of Vienna
Austria, Vienna Danubepier Hov
University of Vienna
Austria, Vienna Danubepier Hov
The University of Vienna is a community of almost 11,000 individuals, including approximately 7,700 academic staff members, who passionately pursue answers to the profound questions that shape our future. They represent individuals driven by curiosity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With us, they find the space to try things out and unfold their potential. Are you inspired by their passion and determination? We are currently seeking a/an University Assistant Predoctoral 52 Faculty of Chemistry Startdate: 01.05.2026 | Working hours: 30 | Collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc) Reference no.: 5457 Explore and teach at the University of Vienna, where more than 7,500 academics thrive on curiosity in continuous exploration and help us better understand our world. Does this sound like you? Then join our accomplished team! Your personal sphere of influence: Your future workplace is at the Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry. You will become part of Veronika Somoza's research group, where you will find excellent opportunities for research in the fields of food chemistry and sustainable food. You will work on a project investigating the influence of flavor compounds on oral and extraoral chemosensory systems involved in physiological functions such as metabolic regulation, food intake, and the immune response. The aim is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which taste-active molecules modulate chemoreceptor signaling pathways in various tissues and to link these findings with physiological results. The project combines cutting-edge molecular biological, analytical chemical, and bioinformatic approaches. The aim is for the successful candidate to be admitted to the Doctoral School for Chemistry (DosChem) at the Faculty of Chemistry of the University of Vienna: https://doschem.univie.ac.at/ The standard employment contract is for three years . Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to three years unless the employer submits a non-renewal notice within the first 12 months. With satisfactory performance and outstanding results, an extension to a maximum of four years is possible. Your future tasks: They actively participate in research, teaching and administration, which means: You are working on your dissertation and its completion. We expect you to finalize your dissertation agreement within 12 to 18 months. Participation in teaching and independent execution of courses within the framework/ scope of the collective agreement provisions . They take on administrative tasks in research, teaching and administration. They are involved in research projects and scientific studies in the following areas: - Analysis of the function of cellular chemoreceptors using molecular biological techniques, including PCR, qPCR, CRISPR/Cas-mediated knockout models, RNA-Seq, fluorescence microscopy and ELISA. Establishment and application of animal and human cell culture systems, including organoid cultures, for the investigation of receptor-ligand interactions and downstream signaling pathways. Comprehensive characterization of flavor compounds using state-of-the-art analytical chemical methods (e.g., LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, HRMS, metabolomics approaches and sensory tests). Bioinformatic analysis and integration of multi-omics datasets (transcriptomics, metabolomics) including path and network analysis. Design and execution of mechanistic in-vitro studies and, where applicable, support of translational approaches in the context of human interventions. This is part of your personality: Master of Science in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Food Chemistry, Nutritional Sciences, or a related discipline Strong background in molecular biology, preferably with experience in CRISPR/Cas genome editing and organoid cultures Hands-on experience in human cell culture systems Knowledge of analytical chemistry techniques (LC-MS, GC-MS) is advantageous Interest in flavor science and the application of bioinformatics and systems biology approaches Strong analytical thinking skills and ability to work independently as well as in an interdisciplinary team Proficiency in English is mandatory. Candidates should be prepared to develop sufficient German language skills to actively participate in the academic environment. You should be a team player with high social skills What we offer: Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible working hours and can partially work remotely. Inspiring working atmosphere: You are a part of an international academic team in a healthy and fair working environment. Good public transport connections: Your workplace is easily accessible by public transport. Internal further training & Coaching: Opportunity to deepen your skills on an ongoing basis. There are over 600 courses to choose from – free of charge. Fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 3.776,10 (on a full-time basis) increases if we can credit professional experience. Fixed-term contract: The employment duration is 3 years. Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to 3 years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a declaration of non-extension. With appropriate work progress and excellent performance of the candidate, an extension to a total maximum of 4 years is possible. Equal opportunities for all: We welcome every additional/new personality to the team! It is that easy to apply: With your scientific curriculum vitae / letter of intent With your summary of research interests / ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal (max. 1 Page) Copies of Bachelor and Master Degree certificates in German or in certified English translation (including CREDIT TRANSCRIPTS!) Contact information of two referees, who have PREVIOUSLY SUPERVISED you in your past research projects Via our job portal/ Apply now - button If you have any questions, please contact: Veronika Somoza veronika.somoza@univie.ac.at We look forward to new personalities in our team! The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We place particular emphasis on enhancing women’s representation among the academic and general university staff, particularly in leadership roles, and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates. University of Vienna. Space for personalities. Since 1365. Data protection Application deadline: 04/09/2026 Prae Doc https://jobs.univie.ac.at/job-invite/5457
Salary
EUR 3,776.10 (based on full-time employment)
Posted
20 Mar 2026
Finance and Operations Manager
The University of Sydney
Australia, Camperdown
The University of Sydney
Australia, Camperdown
Full-time, fixed-term opportunity until 30 June 2028, with possible extension Play a pivotal role in strengthening the financial and operational foundations of the InsideOut Institute at the University of Sydney, supporting a nationally significant organisation working to transform the treatment and understanding of eating disorders Base Salary $126,065 - $142,171 + 17% superannuation About the opportunity Join the InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, a national leader dedicated to transforming the treatment, understanding and prevention of eating disorders across Australia. As a partnership between the University of Sydney and the Sydney Local Health District, with a bold vision to ultimately find a cure, the Institute brings together leading researchers, clinicians, and policymakers to drive meaningful mission led change in a complex and urgent area of public health. As the Finance & Operations Manager, you will play a key role in strengthening the Institute's financial and operational capability. Working under the newly appointed Chief Operating Officer, Tarun Sankaran, and with the Institute leadership, you will have the opportunity to enhance financial processes, reporting frameworks, and data integrity by integrating information across multiple systems and delivering insightful management reporting to support strategic decision-making. You will contribute to budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning, while supporting grant oversight, invoicing workflows, and continuous improvement initiatives. Through strong collaboration across teams, you will help establish consistent, scalable, and efficient financial and operational practices that enable the Institute to deliver on its mission. As part of a collaborative, people centred environment, you will also benefit from flexible working practices, including hybrid arrangements that support balance. Your key responsibilities will be to: Provide strategic financial advice to stakeholders, supporting the resolution of complex financial challenges and enabling informed decision-making. Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities to ensure alignment with the Institute's financial objectives. Produce high-quality financial reporting, analysis, and performance insights using financial and non-financial KPIs, including visualisation tools such as Power BI. Drive continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to enhance financial processes, systems, and reporting methodologies. Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships, facilitating collaboration and ensuring alignment with operational and strategic priorities. Lead and develop the team, overseeing resource management, performance development, compliance, and risk management within the work area. About you Postgraduate qualifications in Business or Finance or a related field, with a relevant combination of training and experience. Membership of Institute of Chartered Accountants or Certified Practicing Accountants Australia (desirable but not required). Demonstrated experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial planning and analysis, and financial reporting. Strong numeracy skills with experience managing income and expenditure, budget tracking, reconciliations, and invoice processing. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and experience working with financial data to support analysis and reporting. Excellent critical thinking, attention to detail, and sound decision-making capabilities. Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively. Sponsorship / work rights for Australia You must have unrestricted work rights in Australia for the duration of this employment to be eligible to apply. Visa sponsorship is not available for this appointment. Pre-employment checks Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment. This position is designated as involving child-related work. To undertake or remain in this position, you are required to apply for and obtain a Working with Children Check clearance in accordance with the Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012. EEO statement At the University of Sydney, our shared values are trust, accountability and excellence and we strive to be a place where everyone can thrive. We are committed to creating a University community that thrives through diversity and reflects the wider community that we serve. We deliver on this through our commitment to diversity and inclusion, evidenced by our people and culture programs, as well as key strategies to increase participation and support the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, women, people living with a disability, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+. We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We are proud to be recognised as an Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI) Platinum Employer. Find out more about our work on diversity and inclusion. How to apply Applications (including a cover letter, CV, and any additional supporting documentation) can be submitted via the Apply button at the top of the page. For employees of the University or contingent workers, please login into your Workday account and navigate to the Career icon on your Dashboard. Click on USYD Find Jobs and apply. For a confidential discussion about the role, or if you require reasonable adjustment or any documents in alternate formats, please contact Roshik Prasad, Recruitment Operations by email to roshik.prasad@sydney.edu.au © The University of Sydney The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment. Click to view the Position Description for this role. Applications Close Monday 06 April 2026 11:59 PM
Salary
$126,065 - $142,171 + 17% superannuation
Posted
20 Mar 2026
Tenure-Track Associate Professor/Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology
The University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Ref.: 534742 Work type: Full-time Department: Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine (20700) Categories: Professoriate Staff Applications are invited for appointment as Tenure-Track Associate Professor/Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine (Ref.: 534742), to commence as soon as possible, on a three-year fixed-term contract, with the possibility of renewal and with consideration for tenure before the expiry of a second three-year fixed-term contract, subject to satisfactory performance. Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree in Microbiology, Virology, or related disciplines and demonstrated a strong track record in virological research, in particular on the following areas: (1) understanding virus-virus or virus-host interaction with structural biology; (2) artificial intelligence or computational-guided virological research; (3) immunity and immunopathology to viruses; (4) multiple-omics investigations of virus-induced host response. Those with less experience may be considered for appointment as Assistant Professor. The appointee is expected to manage on-going research projects on emerging infectious diseases, consistently publish original research articles in high-impact journals and obtain external competitive grants. He/She will also participate in teaching and contribute to the enhancement of medical and healthcare-related courses. Applicants who have responded to the previous advertisement (Ref.: 533264) need not re-apply. A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. At current rates, salaries tax does not exceed 15% of gross income. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of basic salary. Housing benefits will also be provided as applicable. The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date C.V., and contact information of 2 referees should be provided in the application form. Review of applications will start as soon as possible and continue until September 19, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
Salary
Competitive salary
Posted
20 Mar 2026
Research Fellow/Engineer (Metaverse App/Engine) - BD
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Singapore
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Singapore
Introduction As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. The primary responsibility of this role is to deliver on an industry innovation research project where you will be part of the research team to develop software platforms for supporting multi-user AR/VR applications. Key Responsibilities Participate in the research project with Principal Investigator (PI), Co-PI and the research team members to ensure all project deliverables are met. Undertake one of the three responsibilities: Develop an interactive metaverse application for online education, team collaboration, and workplace training with a focus on real-time interactive simulation. (app developer) Design, build, and implement a multiplayer architecture and backend services for a real-time AR/VR multiplayer system. (network engineer) Design, build, and implement the the game engine for both client and server. (game engine software engineer) Perform testing Perform documentation and optionally publishing paper to international conferences/journals. Carry out Risk Assessment, and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health Regulations. Work independently, as well as within a team, to ensure proper operation and maintenance of equipment. Job Requirements A degree in Computer Science or relevant field Experience with software development life cycle For app developer role: Strong knowledge in C++ and/or Javascript for 3D/VR applications (e.g., babylon.js, A-Frame, etc.) will be an advantage Experience in developing XR app for teaching & learning/training. Experience developing optimized modules in C#/C++ within Unity and/or Unreal Engine Experience with database management systems For network engineer role: Experience in computer networking, multiplayer architecture, and backend services Experience in connecting backend to various internal and external services and microservices. Deep knowledge in computer network protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP, and other relevant network protocols). Expertise in handling latency, packet loss, and synchronization issues. Expertise in designing a scalable server architecture for handling thousands to millions of concurrent players, Load balancing, auto-scaling, and server instance management. Expertise in securing a multiplayer game network system. Knowledge of encryption techniques to ensure data in transit remains confidential. Prevention measures against common threats like DDoS attacks, SQL injection, and cheating. Experience in multiplayer game services such as Azure PlayFab, AWS GameLift, Google Cloud Servers, and other similar services. Strong knowledge in C++ will be an advantage. Experience with database management systems Familiarity with core engine technologies such as engine architecture and streaming. Familiarity in developing optimized modules in C#/C++ within Unity and/or Unreal Engine. For game engine software engineer: Strong knowledge in C++ and/or Javascript for 3D/VR applications (e.g., babylon.js, A-Frame, etc.) will be an advantage 3D engine development experience Familiarity with core engine technologies such as engine architecture, multi threading, streaming, computer graphics and advanced real-time rendering techniques Experience developing optimized modules in C#/C++ within Unity and/or Unreal Engine Experience with database management systems
Salary
Competitive
Posted
19 Mar 2026
Subjects Taught at The Open University
See below for a range of subjects taught at The Open University
Arts and Humanities
- Art, Performing Art and Design
- History, Philosophy and Theology
- Languages, Literature and Linguistics
Business and Economics
- Accounting and Finance
- Business and Management
- Economics and Econometrics
Computer Science
- Computer Science
Education Studies
- Education
Engineering
- General Engineering
Law
- Law
Life Sciences
- Agriculture and Forestry
- Biological Sciences
- Sport Science
Medical and Health
- Other Health
Physical Sciences
- Chemistry
- Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Physics and Astronomy
Psychology
- Psychology
Social Sciences
- Politics and International Studies
- Sociology