Overview
For Students
Teaching and Research
profile logo default

University of Birmingham

Ranked
Birmingham, United Kingdom
=98th in World University Rankings 2026
  • About
  • Rankings
  • Impact Rankings
  • Key stats
  • Jobs
  • Subjects
  • Downloads
  • FAQs
  • Suggested universities

About the University of Birmingham

Basic information and contact details for the University of Birmingham

Founded in 1900 on the vision set down by politician and statesman Joseph Chamberlain, the University of Birmingham prides itself on a longstanding tradition of innovation and progressive initiatives.

The university was a founding member of the National Union of Students, and the first in the country to be built on a campus model, incorporate a medical school and offer degrees in dentistry.

It was also the country’s first civic or ‘redbrick’ university, with students accepted regardless of their background or religion.

The modern university is home to 26,000 students, 5,000 of them international. With 31% of its academic staff also from overseas, Birmingham lays claim to one of the most diverse campuses in the UK and encourages a global outlook. Students can take advantage of a number of opportunities to internationalise their degree: around 450 undergraduates complete a year abroad as part of their course.

Birmingham’s main campus is located in the Edgbaston area of the city, where it houses the Joseph Chamberlain Memorial Clock Tower (the world’s tallest free-standing clock), and the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, which opened in 1939 and exhibits original work by Van Gogh, Picasso and Monet.

It is also the location of one of the largest medical schools in Europe and the place where pacemakers and plastic heart valves were developed, where allergy vaccines were pioneered and where the first clinical trials of the contraceptive pill outside the USA took place.

Today, the university cites nanotechnology, gene therapy, virtual reality and robotics as being at the forefront of its research priorities.

At various times, it has been home to eight Nobel laureates and its alumni includes the former British prime ministers Stanley Baldwin and Neville Chamberlain.

Despite Birmingham’s industrial roots, the city is one of the greenest in the UK, with more miles of canals than Venice. Popular with foodies, it is second only to London in terms of the number of Michelin star restaurants it boasts and, with almost 40% of its population below the age of 25, the city has one of the youngest populations in Europe. 

Rankings

Select the type of rankings below to see stats

Discover similar universities

Find out more about studying, research and jobs at these universities

the colour logo

suggested

Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at the University of Birmingham

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
56 F : 44 M (1)
globe fill
International student percentage
35% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
14.6 (1)
student
Student total
34145 (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

See all

Writer in Residence

MAYNOOTH UNIVERSITY

Maynooth University

Ireland, Maynooth

institution

Maynooth University

Ireland, Maynooth


Department: English Vacancy ID: 041183 Closing Date: 17-May-2026 Applications are invited by writers of established reputation for one position co-funded by Maynooth University and Kildare Library and Arts Services, which celebrates a decade-long partnership with this residency. The residency will run from 1st October 2026 – 30th September 2027, with duties expected to average approximately six hours per week contact time with students and the wider public. The role is designed to provide students and the broader community with the opportunity to engage with writers of distinction, as well as providing the writers with time to advance their current project(s). Writers-in-Residence at Maynooth University have included Aingeala Flannery, Catherine Prasifka, Fíona Scarlett, Paul Lynch, Christodoulos Makris, Eoin McNamee, Annemarie Ní Churreáin, Sue Rainsford, Susan Tomaselli, and Joanna Walsh. The position is open to applications from writers working in poetry and/or creative prose. Closing Date: 23:30hrs (local Irish time) on Sunday, 17th May 2026. Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified above. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. Late applications will not be accepted. Maynooth University is an equal opportunities employer The position is subject to the Statutes of the University

Salary

Competitive

Posted

29 Apr 2026

Teaching and Research Assistants Academic Year 26-27

UNIVERSITY OF HELSINKI

University of Helsinki

Finland, Helsingfors (Helsinki)

institution

University of Helsinki

Finland, Helsingfors (Helsinki)


The Faculty of Law at the University of Helsinki is seeking undergraduate students to work as research assistants in Helsinki and as teaching assistants in Helsinki and Vaasa for the academic year 2026–2027. The work will be compensated at an hourly rate of €15.70/hour. Working hours are 0–15 h/week; in Helsinki, 0-60 h/month. The responsibilities of research assistants include assisting researchers with various research-related tasks, such as information retrieval, data collection, proofreading, and technical formatting of footnotes and similar materials. The work requires good IT and communication technology skills, as well as strong interpersonal skills. Proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of Finnish and Swedish is considered an advantage. The responsibilities of teaching assistants include various support tasks related to teaching, including the use of the Moodle learning environment and assisting staff with the system. Additionally, the work involves carrying out practical arrangements related to courses (e.g., grouping students and communicating course-related matters to students) as well as tasks related to recording teaching and other practical implementations of teaching. The tasks also include duties related to bilingualism and the use of both domestic languages, so we value fluency in Swedish. The work also requires good IT and communication technology skills and excellent interpersonal skills. For more information about the research assistants' roles, please contact the Vice Dean for Research Sakari Melander (sakari.melander@helsinki.fi); for teaching assistants in Helsinki, contact the Vice Dean for Teaching Laura Ervo (laura.ervo@helsinki.fi), and in Vaasa Marja-Riitta Hakala (marja-riitta.hakala@helsinki.fi). APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS Short, free-form applications and CVs, no longer than one page, are requested to be submitted as a single PDF attachment via the university’s recruitment portal. The application period ends on May 5, 2026.

Salary

€15.70/hour

Posted

29 Apr 2026

Research Fellow (Australian Harmony Centre - Ecosystem Futures)

MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY - SYDNEY AUSTRALIA

Macquarie University

Australia

institution

Macquarie University

Australia


Salary: $123,435 - $146,044 per annum (Level B.1 - B.6) plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading Full-time, 2-year fixed term role Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde Are you a researcher and educator passionate about understanding the profound connections between people and the natural world? Macquarie University's Australian Harmony Centre for Ecosystem Futures (Harmony Centre) is seeking a forward-thinking Research Fellow, with expertise in sustainability sciences and environmental psychology to join a vibrant, interdisciplinary community dedicated to reimagining our relationship with nature. You will contribute to groundbreaking research, inspire the next generation of sustainability leaders through postgraduate teaching, and help attract funding that drives real-world impact. If you thrive on collaboration, are energised by translating research into meaningful change, and want to work within a university that values bold, interdisciplinary thinking, we would love to hear from you. About the Role As a Research Fellow within the Harmony Centre, you will play a central role in advancing the Centre's research mission while contributing to high-quality postgraduate education. Your key responsibilities will include: Leading and conducting research into nature connection and wellbeing, contributing to the Centre's growing body of evidence-based insights Using the Macquarie University campus, and other partner sites as living labs to investigate sustainability challenges and solutions in real-world settings Teaching into the postgraduate sustainability, environment and conservation coursework Master's degrees, bringing contemporary research directly into the learning experience Collaborating across disciplinary boundaries with researchers in the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences (particularly the School of Psychological Sciences), Macquarie Business School and the Faculty of Arts Pursuing competitive grant and philanthropic funding opportunities aligned to the Harmony Centre's vision Contributing to the Centre's strategic direction and its profile as a leader in sustainability and environmental psychology research Co-Supervising and mentoring higher degree research students About Us The Harmony Centre at Macquarie University is an interdisciplinary hub dedicated to exploring and strengthening the connections between people, nature and wellbeing. Anchored in rigorous research and a commitment to sustainability, the Centre leverages Macquarie's unique assets - including its biodiverse campus as a living laboratory for discovery and innovation. The Centre fosters collaboration across faculties and with external partners to generate insights that inform policy, practice and community action. Macquarie University is a dynamic, research-intensive institution located on a spacious, parkland campus in North Ryde, Sydney. Ranked among the top two percent of universities globally, Macquarie is recognised for its commitment to interdisciplinary research, industry engagement and preparing graduates who make a difference. Our community is built on a culture of curiosity, collaboration and genuine care for one another and the world we share. About You You are an innovative and collaborative researcher with expertise in sustainability sciences and environmental psychological science. You bring a genuine passion for understanding how people relate to the natural world and a commitment to translating that understanding into positive outcomes for communities and ecosystems. You are equally at home leading a research program, inspiring students in the classroom, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and forging partnerships across disciplines and sectors. Selection Criteria: A PhD in environmental psychological science, sustainability science or a closely related discipline A strong and growing research track record in nature connection, wellbeing and/or sustainability, evidenced by quality publications and research outputs (relative to opportunity) Demonstrated experience or clear potential in securing competitive research grants or philanthropic funding Experience in, or aptitude for, teaching in sustainability, environment or conservation programs in higher education Proven ability to work collaboratively across disciplines, with a commitment to interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research Experience or interest in utilising living lab or place-based research approaches Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders including academic colleagues, students, industry and community partners How to Apply To be considered, please apply online with your CV, and a cover letter outlining your understanding and interest in the role, the skills and experience you will bring, and how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above) [maximum 3 pages]. Applications Close: Tuesday 19th of May 2026 at 11:59pm (AEST). Candidates must have Valid Australian Working rights. This role requires police/criminal history checks. We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date. For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Kate Williams - TA Consultant - k.williams@mq.edu.au. Pre-Employment Checks Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University. A Place Where You Belong At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework. Flexible Work At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage our personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University. See how we lead in flexible work to enable an outcome focused and inclusive workplace. To learn more about our culture and hiring process, explore our Candidate Resource Hub.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

29 Apr 2026

Senior Lecturer, Anatomy (T&R)

LA TROBE UNIVERSITY

La Trobe University

Australia, Bundoora

institution

La Trobe University

Australia, Bundoora


Continuing, full time position Based at our La Trobe Melbourne (Bundoora) Campus Level C Salary starting at $144,266 per annum + 17% Superannuation Teaching and Research role About the position The Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology is a major academic unit within the University, with around 50 academic staff teaching more than 3000 undergraduate students across 32 subjects. Within the Department, Anatomy is a key discipline, delivering high-quality, clinically relevant teaching across a range of courses including Allied Health, Biomedicine and Science. The Department fosters a supportive learning environment and has an active research profile spanning its core disciplines. The successful appointee will contribute across anatomy teaching, research, supervision, administration and leadership, consistent with the expectations of a Level C academic role. Skills and Experience To be considered for this position, you will have Completion of a PhD or equivalent accreditation and standing recognised by the University/profession as appropriate for the relevant discipline area. Demonstrated effectiveness in curriculum development and anatomy teaching with a commitment to excellence in teaching. Demonstrated ability to teach anatomy using a range of resources, including with donor bodies in a cadaver anatomy laboratory. Record of successful research student supervision relative to opportunity. Please refer to the Position Description for other duties, skills and experience required for this position. Welcome to Bundoora campus – Please click on the video link below:  https://f.io/KDo0ceng Benefits: 17% employer contributed superannuation On site child care facilities Flexible work arrangements Discounts for staff and their family members to study a range of La Trobe courses How to apply Closing date: By 11:55 pm on Wednesday, the 20th of May 2026 Position Enquiries: Laura Whitburn, Associate Professor Anatomy E: L.Whitburn@latrobe.edu.au Recruitment Enquiries: Madeleine Parker, Talent Acquisition Consultant E: m.parker@latrobe.edu.au Position Description below: PD_Level C_Anatomy_TR_2026.docx Only candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia may apply for this position. Please submit an online application ONLY and include the following documents: Cover letter addressing your suitability for the position; A sperate document addressing each dot point of the Key Selection Criteria outlined under the “Essential Criteria; Skills and knowledge required for the position” section in the Position Description; and An up to date resume; Please scroll down to apply. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Applicants We welcome and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. La Trobe University is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We take an intersectional approach by actively supporting and encouraging people of all backgrounds and abilities to submit an application and aim to ensure that the recruitment and employee experience is as accessible and inclusive as possible. Flexibility in interview format will be offered to shortlisted candidates. All La Trobe University employees are bound by the Working with Children Act 2005.  If you are successful, you will be required to hold a valid Victorian Employee Working with Children Check prior to commencement. La Trobe University is committed to upholding the National Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV Code). This aligns with our mission to create safe and respectful communities. Candidates will be asked during the recruitment process to declare whether they have ever been investigated for, or found to have engaged in, gender-based violence in previous employment and/or in legal proceedings and provide relevant information to assist in determining suitability. Gender-based violence means any form of physical or non-physical violence, harassment, abuse or threats based on gender, that results in, or is likely to result in harm, coercion, control, fear or deprivation liberty or autonomy.

Salary

$144,266 - $165,713 per annum + 17% Superannuation

Posted

29 Apr 2026

Lecturer, Nursing

FEDERATION UNIVERSITY AUSTRALIA

Federation University Australia

Australia, Melbourne

institution

Federation University Australia

Australia, Melbourne


Institute of Health and Wellbeing - Gippsland Campus Part-time (0.5), fixed-term appointment for two years Academic Level B - $116,527 p.a. (pro-rata) plus up to 17% superannuation About the role The Lecturer, Nursing will be expected to actively engage in teaching and student engagement related activities in the delivery of courses in Nursing offered by Federation University. You will: undertake assessment and moderation of undergraduate and/or postgraduate students; undertake unit/course coordination and related responsibilities; and develop, course materials and resources in Nursing About you You will work independently in the conduct of teaching and scholarship activities and be an active contributor to administrative functions within the institute. You will possess: demonstrated commitment to and enthusiasm for teaching; demonstrated ability to develop and implement a student-centred approach; demonstrated experience in academic administration, including the administration of units or courses; and proven ability, commitment and passion for engaging in scholarly research to improve and enhance learning and teaching. All University positions must hold a valid Employer Working With Children Check (WWCC). Please refer to the position description for WWCC requirements. How to apply Please apply by Sunday, 17 May 2026. Applicants are required to submit a resume and a response to the key selection criteria. View position description Federation University is committed to The Circle Back Initiative program, whereby we will respond to every applicant. If you are experiencing technical difficulties with your application, please email the Recruitment team or phone 03 5327 9756. Our position descriptions also list a contact person for job specific inquiries.

Salary

$116,527 p.a. (pro-rata) plus up to 17% superannuation

Posted

29 Apr 2026

Do you work for this institution?

Make your university stand out by adding more stats, events and more.

Subjects Taught at the University of Birmingham

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

Arts and Humanities

  • Archaeology
  • 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
  • Sport Science

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