Queen’s University Belfast
Working, teaching and research at Queen’s University Belfast
Information about Queen’s University Belfast for Academics
Queen’s University Belfast is a world-class international university built on teaching excellence, leading-edge research, innovation, collaboration, and engagement.
We are recognised globally for our academic strengths and the impact we deliver through leading research. We encourage a culture of research ambition to tackle some of the greatest societal challenges of our time.
It is our purpose and responsibility to take on major global challenges and turn research to reality; every day, we find answers to help build a better society. Staying apace with rapid societal, economic, and technological change, our aim is to shape a better world for all.
Our strategic research areas are based on our record of excellence and ambition for the future:
Our researchers are dedicated to deepening our understanding of diseases and developing solutions and treatments for them. Our expertise in conducting clinical trials and our world leading facilities in cancer and precision medicine research are a testament to the breakthroughs that Queen’s research has facilitated over the decades. We are also leading the way in developing strategies and initiatives which mitigate against the worst effects of illness, and which act as preventative agents to illnesses developing in the first place.
How we are delivering:
Giving Voice to the Hidden Carers of Cancer
Researchers at Queen’s are pioneering ways to better understand and support those who care for loved ones with cancer. Professor Martin Dempster, Professor of Psychology Applied to Health & Illness, explores the psychological wellbeing of informal carers; from adolescents balancing school with caring responsibilities, to families navigating the emotional and practical demands of life-limiting cancers such as oesophageal cancer. His work ensures that the voices of carers, often hidden from formal support systems, are recognised in healthcare research, practice, and policy.
A Transformative and Sustainable Economy
The economy of the next 100 years will be a necessarily different one to the economy we experience today. The ongoing climate crisis, our fossil fuel dependency, raw material shortages and the possibility of supply chain disruptions call for innovative, responsible, and sustainable solutions. We will continue to focus our efforts on established and emerging areas such as intelligent manufacturing and service delivery, advanced and sustainable materials, solutions to future transport requirements, and understanding and harnessing high energy and ultra-fast processes.
How we are delivering:
Moving Towards Zero Emissions Public Transport
Researchers from Queen’s, in collaboration with Wrightbus have developed best-in-class low and zero emissions technologies playing a key role in decarbonising UK and international public transport.
Secure Connect Intelligence – AI and the Data Revolution
Researchers at Queen’s are on a mission to make the changing global digital space both safer and faster. Our world leading teams in cyberspace resilience and networks and connectivity are breaking new ground in the digital sphere, as our teams in geographical information science are doing in the physical.
Novel computer systems and changing computing paradigms require agile and cutting edge research which can be translated quickly and effectively into real world practice. Using data fusing enabling technologies will assist in socio economic development but will also act as a positive driver for the health of populations in the future, and for their safety and security.
How we are delivering:
Using Emerging Technologies to Improve Lives
Listen to our Research to Reality roundtable discussion featuring four academics from Queen's University Belfast: Lucy Baxter, Professor Paul Best, Professor Franziska Schroeder and Professor Roger Woods. Hosted by former BBC journalist Mark Devenport, this conversation delves into the potential power of VR and AI in transforming understanding of mental abuse and improving mental health, inclusive design in the music industry, and making AI smarter, faster, and greener.
The impact of the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT)
Our Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) is the UK’s Innovation and Knowledge Centre for cyber security which drives forward major research breakthroughs in the field of secure information technologies.
Understanding the relationship between humans and our environment has never been more important. The choices we face have never been so stark. Our climate is changing. The effects of this are being felt now as a day-to-day reality. There is an obligation on those involved in academic research to turn towards the challenges presented.
Whether this relates to our natural environment, creating safe and secure agri-food systems, assessing the way in which our built environment interacts with the natural world, or in the way we build and maintain truly liveable communities and societies, Queen’s researchers are at the forefront of innovative, future focused solutions that aim to make our footprint lighter, both on earth and beyond.
How we are delivering:
Fighting Hidden Climate and Environmental Threats
Listen to our engaging academics in a roundtable discussion which delves into the overarching theme of ‘Fighting Hidden Climate and Environmental Threats’. Professor Jaimie Dick highlights the potential impact of invasive alien species, Dr. Ross Cuthbert addresses the hidden cost of biological invasions, and Professor Maarten Blaauw explains the importance of peatlands as critical carbon reservoirs.
Inclusive and Cohesive Communities
As a university based in Belfast, we are proud of our longstanding and world leading track record in research relating to peace, identity, conflict, and social sustainability. Our lived experience of conflict as a society, its causes, and its consequences, have driven a determination to deliver research excellence which impacts on the lives and livelihoods of communities across the world.
Whether that relates to governance, accountability, and international relations, listening to and responding to the child’s perspective, understanding the need for creativity and cultural understanding, or valuing heritage in building inclusive and cohesive communities.
How we are delivering:
Advancing Transitional Justice: Queen’s University Belfast’s Role in Global Peacebuilding
Queen’s University Belfast has established itself as a global hub for pioneering research in transitional justice, a critical field focused on addressing the legacies of conflict and fostering reconciliation. Through interdisciplinary research led by experts like Professor Kieran McEvoy, the university develops innovative frameworks for truth recovery, victim-centred justice, apologies & acknowledgement, and reintegration strategies, influencing peacebuilding efforts worldwide.
Harnessing the Arts to Heal Post-Conflict Societies
Queen’s University Belfast leads pioneering research examining the transformative power of literature and the arts in societies recovering from conflict, with a special focus on Northern Ireland. The university’s work, exemplified by scholars like Dr. Stefanie Lehner, investigates how contemporary Irish theatre and cultural productions negotiate memory, trauma, and reconciliation.
Key Statistics for Professionals
Key data points related to studying at Queen’s University Belfast
- Over 99% of Queen’s research environment was assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent. (REF 2021)
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- Gold Athena Swan award
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- 4000+ staff
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- AN EXTENSIVE NETWORK OF RESEARCH CENTRES AND INSTITUTES
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- Queen’s is a member of the Russell Group, the UK’s 24 leading research-intensive universities.
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- Ranked 5th in the world for international outlook. (THE World University Rankings 2026)
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- Queen’s is the 1st university in Ireland and 2nd in the UK to achieve a Gold Athena Swan award for gender equality.
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Jobs at Queen’s University Belfast
Open positions for academics and staff at Queen’s University Belfast
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Head of Collections and Archives
Queen's University Belfast
United Kingdom, Belfast
Queen's University Belfast
United Kingdom, Belfast
About the job: We are seeking to recruit an exceptional and forward-thinking leader to take on the role of Head of Collections and Archives, a key strategic position within the Library. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of one of the UK and Ireland's leading academic library collections, bringing together responsibility for internationally significant Special Collections with oversight of dynamic physical and digital collections that support research, teaching, and engagement. As Head of Collections and Archives, you will lead the development and delivery of an integrated collections strategy aligned with the University's ambitions for research excellence and student success, while shaping how collections are discovered, accessed, and used through digital innovation and transformation. You will provide strategic leadership for Special Collections, enhancing their visibility, impact, and reputation, and oversee significant collections investment to ensure alignment with academic priorities and maximum value. The role will also play a central part in shaping the Library's future spaces, balancing print, digital, and user needs in a rapidly evolving environment. Working collaboratively across the University and external partners, you will represent Queen's at national and international levels, and lead and inspire a high-performing team, fostering a culture of collaboration, inclusion, and continuous improvement. If you are someone who sets and achieves high standards and would like to be part of a collaborative and ambitious leadership team, we would welcome your application. About the person: The successful candidate must have, and your application should clearly demonstrate that you meet the following essential criteria: A minimum of a degree (or equivalent qualification); OR Substantial relevant senior management experience. Significant senior leadership experience in a research library, archive, or cultural heritage environment. Experience of managing budgets and resources effectively. Strong track record of stakeholder engagement and partnership working. Experience of working with, and influencing, senior management. To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information on our website.
Salary
£64,570-£74,823 per annum
Posted
25 May 2026
Lecturer (Teaching & Research), School of Pharmacy
Queen's University Belfast
China, Shenyang
Queen's University Belfast
China, Shenyang
About the job: The China Medical University - Queen's University of Belfast Joint College (CQC) was established through a long-standing partnership between Queen's School of Pharmacy and China Medical University (CMU). The postholder will play a key role in delivering high-quality teaching in pharmaceutical biotechnology or pharmaceutical sciences at undergraduate level, contributing to postgraduate teaching as required. They will also undertake research aligned with the strategic priorities of the School of Pharmacy and contribute to administrative, outreach, and engagement activities within the School. The role involves a split-location model, with the postholder expected to be based at CQC in China for approximately 26 weeks per year and at the Queen's University Belfast School of Pharmacy for the remaining 26 weeks About the person: We are seeking an ambitious Lecturer (Teaching & Research) to contribute to high-quality teaching and research within the School of Pharmacy. The role involves delivering engaging teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, developing innovative curricula, and supporting an excellent student experience. The successful candidate will establish and sustain a strong research profile, including publishing in high-quality journals, securing funding, and collaborating within research teams. They will also contribute to student supervision, outreach, and partnerships with industry and academic collaborators, alongside participation in School administration and quality assurance activities. Applicants must hold an Honours degree and a PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant area of pharmaceutical sciences, with teaching and research experience appropriate to career stage, including university-level teaching. A strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals is essential, along with evidence of academic administration or management. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a commitment to advancing teaching, research, and student learning. The role requires a highly motivated and analytical individual who can contribute to the School's national and international research networks and wider strategic priorities. There is a requirement to be based at our CQC Campus in China for 26 weeks of the year. To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information document on our website.
Salary
£45,349 - £49,536 per annum
Posted
31 May 2026
Lecturer in Ancient History
Queen's University Belfast
United Kingdom, Belfast
Queen's University Belfast
United Kingdom, Belfast
About the job: This is a permanent, full-time academic post to teach and supervise at undergraduate and postgraduate level in Ancient History, to deliver high-quality research appropriate to stage of career, and to contribute to the School's administration activity. The School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics is one of the largest and most diverse Schools at Queen's University Belfast, exploring culture and society from the origins of humanity and ancient history to contemporary debates around politics and government. We are also home to a number of research centres, which bring together clusters of research conducted by academics in the school and beyond. About the person: As the successful candidate, you will have the following core criteria: Completed Ph.D. in Ancient History or cognate subject. Evidence of research output development in Ancient History appropriate to stage of career. Evidence of ability to contribute teaching to modules in Ancient History. Evidence of ability to carry out administrative duties appropriate to post. Excellent interpersonal and communication (written and oral) skills, including the ability to work as an effective team member. Excellent oral communication and presentation skills, with sufficiently developed English language skills to deliver undergraduate and postgraduate education. High level of analytical capability. To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information document on our website.
Salary
£45,349 - £49,536 per annum
Posted
17 May 2026
Lecturer in Irish Politics
Queen's University Belfast
United Kingdom, Belfast
Queen's University Belfast
United Kingdom, Belfast
About the job: The School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics (HAPP) at Queen's University Belfast, is currently seeking to recruit a talented Lecturer in Irish Politics. The person appointed will be expected to play an active role in the School's research and teaching activities, and to work closely with colleagues from across the School. Applicants must have graduated with a PhD in Politics and have demonstrated the ability to produce high-quality publications commensurate with their career stage and to provide excellent teaching. The School of HAPP is one of the largest and most diverse Schools at Queen's University Belfast, exploring culture and society from the origins of humanity and ancient history to contemporary debates around politics and government. We are also home to a number of research centres, which bring together clusters of research conducted by academics in the school and beyond. About the person: The successful candidate must have, and your application should clearly demonstrate that you meet the following criteria: Ph.D. in Politics (must be submitted). Evidence of publishing world leading research, particularly on the politics of the Republic of Ireland either as a case study or in comparative analysis. Record of publication of research outputs appropriate to stage of career in internationally recognised Political Science journals or related field journals. A track record of a research focus on the contemporary politics and governance of the Republic of Ireland. Evidence of effective and innovative teaching at University level appropriate to stage of career, including successful design and delivery of modules. Evidence of ability to contribute to the teaching of modules concerning the government and politics of the Republic of Ireland, and in political science/studies and methods more generally. A track record of leadership, demonstrated as evidence of leadership or significant contribution to major initiatives that significantly improved education, research or administrative processes, particularly in respect of the study of Irish politics. Please note the above are not an exhaustive list. To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information. document on our website.
Salary
£45,349 - £49,536 per annum
Posted
18 May 2026
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