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University of Manchester

Ranked
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Sustainability Impact Rated
Manchester, United Kingdom
56th in World University Rankings 2026
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About the University of Manchester

Basic information and contact details for the University of Manchester

The University of Manchester is a place where research has international impact, where students experience outstanding teaching and learning, and where all activity is enriched by a commitment to social responsibility and the benefits we bring to society and the environment.

We were the first British university to set social responsibility as a core goal and our commitment to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) is unmatched. We are the only university in the top 10 in the world in both the QS World University Sustainability Rankings and Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.  In the 2024 Impact Rankings, we ranked first in the UK and Europe and second in the world against 2,152 universities from 125 countries that submitted data about how they are addressing the most pressing challenges facing our planet.

 

200 years of making a difference

Manchester was the first and most eminent of England’s civic universities. In 2024, we celebrated our bicentenary: 200 years of education and innovation. During this milestone year we reflected on and celebrated our rich heritage of discovery, social change and pioneering spirit, which remains at the heart of all we do. Today, we’re a truly international university – our community includes more than 44,000 students, 12,800 staff and 550,000 alumni from 190 countries. 

Our flagship bicentenary celebrations included a four-day festival, Universally Manchester, and hosting the prestigious THE World Academic Summit, welcoming more than 500 delegates from across the globe to explore our theme: ‘Making a difference: The purpose of universities in a rapidly changing world’.

As we move into our next chapter, Manchester 2035 is our bold new strategy. Building on the purpose, vision and values of Our future, it will identify and accelerate our strategic ambitions for the next decade. 

 

Research and innovation with impact

Ground-breaking research runs throughout our history and 26 Nobel laureates have studied or worked with us. This includes current members of academic staff, Professors Sir Kostya Novoselov and Sir Andre Geim, who shared the 2004 Nobel Prize in Physics for the isolation of graphene’s properties.

Other pioneering discoveries include the work of Tom Kilburn, Freddie Williams and Alan Turing on the modern computer – the first stored-program was run at Manchester – and the development of modern economics by trailblazers Sir John Richard Hicks and Sir William Arthur Lewis. The latter, on his appointment at Manchester, was Britain’s first Black professor. Manchester also led the way with the appointment of Baroness Jean McFarlane as the first Professor of Nursing in England. McFarlane, a pioneer within the field of healthcare, established the country’s first nursing degree.

Today, nearly half of our academic and research staff work on interdisciplinary research. Our five research beacons – advanced materials, biotechnology, cancer, energy and global inequalities – are examples of how our cross-sector partnerships are helping to find unique solutions to some of the world’s biggest challenges. 

Our place as one of the UK’s top research universities was confirmed in the results of the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. 93% of our research activity was judged to be ‘world-leading’ (4*) or ‘internationally excellent’ (3*), and we were ranked fifth in terms of research power. We submitted one of the largest and broadest submissions in the sector, involving 2,249 researchers (600 more than the last REF in 2014).

Through our Innovation Factory, we invest in the commercialisation of research via spin-out companies and partnerships with industry. These commercialisation activities have contributed £868 million to the UK economy since 2004 and we're ranked 8th in the Reuters Top 100 Most Innovative Universities in Europe (2019). We have a host of innovation initiatives designed to engage students, staff and local communities with the potential of research at Manchester. These include the Masood Entrepreneurship Centre and ID Manchester, a new billion-pound innovation district being developed in the heart of Manchester, alongside the University.

In 2024 the University launched a new specialist function, Unit M, to transform how the University partners with start-ups, scale-ups and industry to strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem. Led by CEO, Professor Lou Cordwell OBE, Unit M has a mandate to drive the University’s new approach to innovation, and will connect and catalyse the innovation ecosystem in Manchester and the wider region to accelerate inclusive growth.

 

Studying here

Our student community is one of the largest and most diverse in the UK, with more than a quarter of our 44,000 students joining us from overseas.

World-class research forms the foundation of all our teaching and we offer more than 1,000 degree programmes across undergraduatepostgraduate taught and research. These programmes inspire learners with challenging ideas, knowledge and wisdom, helping them develop the skills employers need most and result in the University consistently ranking as one of the most targeted universities by the UK’s top 100 recruiters (High Fliers Research).

We're committed to enhancing the quality of our learning experience and growing global access to a Manchester education. We're making a multi-million pound investment in flexible, blended learning to create a more inclusive and international environment for learners of all ages and backgrounds. We have four global centres – in Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Singapore – offering a growing range of online and blended learning courses that combine face-to-face and digital activities.

Our city-centre campus is at the heart of one of the UK’s most welcoming and diverse places, with up to 200 languages spoken. Manchester is also one of Britain’s most celebrated cities – judged to be the top UK city to live in for 2022 (the Economist’s Global Liveability Index).

 

Social responsibility

The University is ideally placed to address many of the world’s major social and environmental challenges. Our interdisciplinary teams are continually collaborating and evolving their research to find solutions to the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, and we are the only university in the world to have ranked in the top ten in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for six years running.

As a civic university, Manchester contributes to the expansion of educational, social, and cultural opportunities in the city and beyond. We invest more than £15 million annually in financial support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. More than 1,300 of our staff and alumni – more than at any other university – have volunteered their time and skills as school governors at local state schools.

As part of our 200th anniversary, we launched our prestigious Bicentenary PhD Studentships and Fellowships. This £28 million initiative will recruit and fund more than 200 early career researchers between 2025 and 2027, in partnership with philanthropic support.

The University runs four world-leading cultural institutions across our region – Manchester Museum, the Whitworth, the Jodrell Bank Discovery Centre (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and John Rylands Research Institute and Library – which engage over a million members of the public with our knowledge and collections each year.

Our students are inspired to go beyond their studies to contribute to positive change, improving their lives and those of others. We encourage all our students to participate in Stellify, a programme of transformative activities designed to help students grow and develop into the leaders of tomorrow. Activities include taking on ethical grand challenges relating to equality, sustainability and social justice, making a difference through community volunteering and developing key skills through leadership roles or work experience. Students can even choose to work towards gaining a prestigious University award.

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Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at the University of Manchester

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
57 F : 43 M (1)
globe fill
International student percentage
46% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
14.9 (1)
student
Student total
43470 (1)

Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2026

Jobs you might be interested in

You may want to explore jobs from other universities which are relevant to you

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Grant Funded Researcher (A) – School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering

ADELAIDE UNIVERSITY

Adelaide University

Australia, Adelaide

institution

Adelaide University

Australia, Adelaide


Based in the College of Engineering and IT at the Adelaide City Campus East Full-time (1.0FTE), fixed term contract for 12 months (Level A) $81,293 - $109,307 per annum plus an employer contribution of 17% superannuation applies. At Adelaide University, we create the opportunities you need to achieve your ambitions – because when you thrive, we thrive. We are transforming education for contemporary learners and global citizens. Building on a proud legacy and shaped by bold ambition, it’s a place of excellence and equity, where our vibrant community of staff are united by our purpose to inspire Australia’s future change-makers and create a better tomorrow. Work that matters This role drives the development of an innovative solar concentrator prototype, advancing the University’s renewable‑energy research while contributing to cleaner, low‑cost thermal technologies for industry and society. The Researcher will design, build, and validate solar thermal concentrator systems, managing prototype development from concept to field‑tested performance. This will involve the preparation and delivery of project documentation, including mid-term and final reports, and supporting engagement with project partners and stakeholders. The team Reporting to the Chief Investigator of the AEA Ignite project, this role supports the University’s solar‑thermal innovation stream, advancing technologies that strengthen Australia’s transition to sustainable energy solutions. Visit the AU website to learn more about the School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. Our people Our people are guided by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. We embrace authenticity, innovation and collaboration, and harness diverse thinking in our pursuit of excellence. You’ll work across both workshop and field settings, combining technical problem‑solving with real‑world experimentation in an environment that values initiative and adaptability. Learn more about our people, what we stand for and what we offer at Careers at AU. Experience To join our community and thrive in this role, you will likely have the following skills and experience:  A PhD in mechanical engineering, energy engineering, renewable energy, or a related discipline. Candidates nearing completion may be considered where thesis submission is imminent and relevant expertise is demonstrated. Demonstrated research track record in solar thermal systems, energy systems, or related fields. Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and preparation of engineering drawings. Demonstrated hands-on experience in experimental systems, including rig design, instrumentation, and troubleshooting. Special Requirements Willingness and ability to work regularly at a remote field site (ABLRF, 2 km North of Adelaide University Roseworthy Campus). A valid driver’s licence and ability to travel independently to the ABLRF field site is required. It would be considered an asset if candidates also have: Experience with solar concentrators, heliostats, or tracking systems. Experience with field testing and outdoor experimental campaigns. Experience in industry collaboration or technology commercialisation. Experience in thermal-fluid systems or heat transfer applications.  Our commitment to inclusion and diversity  We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels respected and valued. Adelaide University is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace where everyone can thrive. We strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, and people of all ages, genders, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, and gender identities. We are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements and providing reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. Launch your future with Adelaide University now Applying is simple. Simply click on the Apply Now button and upload:  your current CV  a cover letter that tells us why you’re excited about the role  The online application form will list the specific selection criteria that you need to address. Submit your application by 11:55pm, Sunday 17th of May. The University reserves the right to close this advertisement before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. For further information about this opportunity, please contact:  Rachael Cossons  Talent Acquisition Adviser +61 8 8302 1700 | careers.adelaideuniversity@adelaide.edu.au  Applications welcomed from Australian or NZ citizens, Australian permanent residents and those who have the legal right to work in Australia for the term of appointment.

Salary

$81,293 - $109,307 per annum plus an employer contribution of 17% superannuation

Posted

1 May 2026

Assistant Professor in Human Geography

DURHAM UNIVERSITY

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham

institution

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham


The Department of Geography at Durham University seeks to appoint an Assistant Professor in Human Geography who has expertise in the field of Health Geography that will complement and extend our current work in our Geographies of Life research cluster. We encourage applications in health geographies broadly defined. This could include but is not limited to: political economies and political ecologies of health; health and environment; more-than-human health geographies; feminist, queer and decolonial approaches to health; health and geohumanities; care economies; mental well being; disability; neurodiversity; and health inequalities and social justice. The successful candidate will develop world class scholarship in their field, and we encourage work that develops a range of theoretical, conceptual, and/or methodological approaches. They will have completed a PhD in a relevant field, have a track record of internationally excellent and agenda setting publications and demonstrate a track record of, or potential for, securing external funding. They will have experience of, or show a commitment to, delivering excellent teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels and will be expected to contribute to undergraduate and Master's-level teaching. In addition to their research, the successful candidate will contribute to the department through administrative roles commensurate with their grade. Geography at Durham consistently ranks among the very best departments not just in the UK, but also in the world. We were ranked equal =1st in the REF 2021 research assessment exercise with a research environment that was awarded the highest possible 100% 4* score. We are ranked 6th in the world in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject. Our students report high satisfaction levels in the National Student Survey. From the field to the virtual environment, we are dedicated to exploring innovative methodologies. As an Assistant Professor, you will benefit from our commitment to ensure that your teaching load is sustainable, and from our generous research leave policy. This will give you time to carry out internationally excellent research, informing your teaching and supervision at undergraduate and postgraduate level. We support academics with a generous travel allowance and you will be able to apply to the Department's Research Development Fund for additional funding to develop your research. We regularly host visiting academics and research students from around the world. The department benefits from access to diverse PhD funding sources including the ESRC NINEDTP, AHRC Northern Bridge, and IAPETUS NERC Doctoral Training Partnerships. The post offers an exciting opportunity to make a major contribution to internationally excellent research and teaching while allowing you unrivalled opportunities to progress and embed your career in an exciting and progressive institution. The department achieved an Athena Swan Silver award, and we continue to further embed actions to promote equality in everything we do. We are proud of our efforts to decolonise our curricula and ensure inclusive fieldwork, and to be part of a vibrant university community that celebrates diversity, and we encourage talented people from all backgrounds to join us. Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1 October 2026. Please direct informal enquiries to Prof Colm O'Cofaigh (Head of Department). The closing date for applications is 10 May 2026. For more information on the Department of Geography see: https://www.dur.ac.uk/geography/

Salary

£47,389 - £56,535 per annum

Posted

1 May 2026

Associate Professor / Assistant Professor in Language and Healthcare Communications

THE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG

The University of Hong Kong

Hong Kong

institution

The University of Hong Kong

Hong Kong


Ref.: 535033 Work type: Full-time Department: School of English (04300) Categories: Professoriate Staff Applications are invited for appointment as Associate Professor on Tenure Terms/Tenure-Track Assistant Professor in Language and Healthcare Communications in the School of English (Ref. 535033), to commence on January 1, 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter. The appointment of Tenure-Track Assistant Professor will be made on a three-year fixed-term basis, with the possibility of renewal and consideration for tenure before the expiry of a second three-year fixed-term contract. The Faculty of Arts is ranked number two for Arts and Humanities in Asia (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026). The School of English, housed under the Faculty of Arts, offers degree programmes at undergraduate, research postgraduate and taught postgraduate levels. Information about the School is available at https://english.hku.hk/. Please note that the School is not involved in English as a Second Language (ESL) teaching. Enquiries about this job position can be sent to the School of English (english@hku.hk). Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree in a relevant discipline, a proven track record, and be prepared to teach and supervise at the B.A., M.A., M.Phil. and Ph.D. levels. The appointee is expected to help the School of English advance innovative teaching and impactful scholarship in language and healthcare communications. We particularly welcome applications from scholars working on, but not limited to: Language and Psychology Neuro-Humanities Health Communications, including AI-mediated communication in clinical settings (e.g., between medical providers and patients) Representations of Health, Disease, and Illness (including on social media and across languages and cultures) Discourses of Disability, Sexuality, or Mental Health Science Communications and the Public Sphere (e.g., global discourses of climate change, pandemics, or vaccination) 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 for a tenured Associate Professor appointment; or together with a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme at 15% of basic salary for a fixed-term Assistant Professor appointment. 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. The University only accepts online application for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload (1) a cover letter; (2) an up-to-date C.V. (which should include the names and contact information of three referees); and (3) a writing sample (one dissertation chapter or published article). Shortlisted applicants will be invited to arrange for three reference letters to be sent by their referees to the School confidentially for consideration. Review of applications will commence as soon as possible and continue until August 31, 2026 or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier. The University is committed to diversity and inclusivity. The Faculty of Arts expressly encourages qualified persons of all genders to apply. Advertised: Apr 28, 2026 (HK Time) Applications close: Aug 31, 2026 (HK Time)

Salary

Competitive

Posted

1 May 2026

Postdoctoral Researcher in the Computational Analysis of Culture

UNIVERSITY OF HELSINKI

University of Helsinki

Finland, Helsingfors (Helsinki)

institution

University of Helsinki

Finland, Helsingfors (Helsinki)


We are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher for a fixed term contract between 9/26 – 5/29 or as agreed for the OTSO project. This position is based in the Human Sciences – Computing Interaction Research Group at the Department of Digital Humanities and relates to a long-standing interdisciplinary collaboration that studies the Finnic oral poetry system based on a large set of transcribed poems. The post-doctoral researcher will work in tight collaboration with people from computer science, linguistics and folkloristics to develop and apply capabilities for the large-scale modelling and analysis of the Finnic oral poetry system, based on a large set of transcribed poems. Depending on the background of the selected candidate, this may include, for example, the development of LLM and other machine-learning methods for the identification and extraction of higher-level signals (e.g. motifs, story schemas, naming formulas) from this multilingual corpus, the statistical modelling and large-scale analysis of said phenomena, or the development of mixed-method research pipelines. Requirements for the position and assessment of qualifications According to the Regulations of the University of Helsinki, an appointee to the position of postdoctoral researcher shall hold a doctoral degree and have the ability to conduct independent scholarly work as well as the teaching skills necessary for the position. For this position, the appointee must hold a doctoral degree in computer science, data science, digital humanities, statistics, or a related field, and have a keen interest in tackling complex problems in interdisciplinary collaboration. Previous experiences of such, as well as of working with large volumes of data (also in high-performance and GPU-accelerated computing environments) are considered advantages. Strong teamwork skills and an excellent command of written and spoken English are also required. A knowledge of Finnic languages is considered an advantage for the corpus work, but not a necessity. When assessing applicants’ qualifications, attention will be paid to international academic activities, including high-quality peer-reviewed publications. The position is filled with a six-month trial period. What we offer The salary for the position will be based on level 5 of the job requirement scheme for teaching and research personnel in the salary system of Finnish universities. In addition, the appointee will be paid a salary component based on personal performance. The annual gross salary is €42,000 - €49,000. In Finnish universities, the teaching and research staff (app. 65% of total staff) have a special system regarding the free time equivalent to holiday. They belong to the 1,612 annual working hour system, in which the annual amount of paid holiday is app. 5-6 weeks on average per year. The University of Helsinki offers comprehensive services to its employees, including occupational health care and health insurance, sports facilities, and opportunities for professional development. The University provides support for internationally recruited employees with their transition to work and life in Finland. More information here: https://www.helsinki.fi/en/about-us/careers/welcome-finland-information-arriving-staff How to apply The application must be accompanied by the following documents in PDF format: A statement of motivation for applying for the position, or how you would contribute to the project and a description of your core skills (max. 750 words) A curriculum vitae A list of publications Names and contact information of two referees Other attachments, including letters of recommendation or certificates, are not required at this point. We expect that you will send us a self-written application that reflects your own voice and thoughts. Applications generated by artificial intelligence do not meet our expectations. Applications must be submitted through the University of Helsinki electronic recruitment system by clicking on the link below. Current employees of the University of Helsinki must submit their applications through SAP Fiori’s Suffeli recruitment portal. Further information about the position can be obtained from Professor Eetu Mäkelä. Further information about the recruitment process can be obtained from recruitment(at)helsinki.fi. Please indicate the position title in all inquiries. A diverse and equitable study and work culture is important to us. That is why we do our best to promote an inclusive university community. We encourage all qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply for our positions. Click this link to read about accessibility and inclusivity at our University. JOIN US TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD – TOGETHER!  #HelsinkiUniCareers

Salary

€42,000 - €49,000

Posted

1 May 2026

Assistant Professor in Physical Geography

DURHAM UNIVERSITY

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham

institution

Durham University

United Kingdom, Durham


The Department of Geography at Durham University seeks to appoint an Assistant Professor in Physical Geography who has expertise in the field of Earth Observation. We seek someone who will complement and extend our current work in one or more of our research clusters (Hazards and Surface Change; Catchments and Rivers; Sea Level, Ice Sheets and Climate), but we particularly welcome applications from candidates who apply Earth observation approaches to outstanding problems in the fields of mountain environments, geohazards, geomorphology and catchments and river science. The successful candidate will develop world class scholarship in their field. They will have completed a PhD in a relevant field, have a track record of internationally excellent and agenda setting publications and demonstrate a track record of, or potential for, securing external funding. They will have experience of, or show a commitment to, delivering excellent teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels and will be expected to contribute to undergraduate and Master's-level teaching. In addition to their research, the successful candidate will contribute to the department through administrative roles commensurate with their grade. Geography at Durham consistently ranks among the very best departments in the UK and the world. We were ranked equal =1st in the REF 2021 research assessment exercise with a research environment that was awarded the highest possible 100% 4* score. We are ranked 6th in the world in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject. Our students report high satisfaction levels in the National Student Survey. As an Assistant Professor, you will benefit from our commitment to ensure that your teaching load is sustainable, and from our generous research leave policy. This will give you time to carry out internationally excellent research, informing your teaching and supervision at undergraduate and postgraduate level. We support academics with a generous travel allowance and you will be able to apply to the Department's Research Development Fund for additional funding to develop your research. We regularly host visiting academics and research students from around the world. The department benefits from access to diverse PhD funding sources including the IAPETUS NERC Doctoral Training Partnership. We have a suite of world-class laboratories and field equipment for research and teaching supported by an experienced team of technicians. The post offers an exciting opportunity to make a major contribution to internationally excellent research and teaching while allowing you unrivalled opportunities to progress and embed your career in an exciting and progressive institution. The department recently achieved an Athena Swan Silver award, and we continue to further embed actions to promote equality in everything we do. We are proud of our efforts to decolonise our curricula and ensure inclusive fieldwork for staff and students, and to be part of a vibrant university community that celebrates diversity. We encourage talented people from all backgrounds to join us. Successful applicants will, ideally, be in post by 1 October 2026. Please direct informal enquiries to Prof Colm O'Cofaigh (Head of Department) . The closing date for applications is 10 May 2026. For more information on the Department of Geography see: https://www.dur.ac.uk/geography/

Salary

£47,389 - £56,535 per annum

Posted

1 May 2026

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Subjects Taught at the University of Manchester

See below for a range of subjects taught at the University of Manchester

Arts and Humanities

  • Archaeology
  • Architecture
  • 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

  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • General Engineering
  • Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Law

  • Law

Life Sciences

  • Biological Sciences

Medical and Health

  • Medicine and Dentistry
  • Other Health

Physical Sciences

  • Chemistry
  • Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences
  • Mathematics and Statistics
  • Physics and Astronomy

Psychology

  • Psychology

Social Sciences

  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Geography
  • Politics and International Studies
  • Sociology