Cluster Lead

Following a review of its structure, the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering is creating new subject clusters. The purpose of these cluster groups will be to concentrate teaching and research within specific subject areas. During two recent reviews and forms completed by staff members the following subject areas were identified: Materials, Structures, Architectural design, Water, coastline engineering and Geotech, Regenerative design, Climate & the environment. In the first round of applications, we have appointed 6 Cluster leads and we are still recruiting for two more positions.

It is important to note that the final names of the clusters can be adjusted to accommodate the needs and preference of their respective Leads and members. These are complementary to the faculty research centres which are challenge based (rather than subject based).

The Cluster Lead roles are open to staff on permanent teaching only or teaching and research contracts  (core academic staff) in the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering at the University of Bath. There is no expectation that staff have a minimum grade to be able to undertake the role (they can be lecturer, senior lecturer, reader or professor), but they do need to be able to fulfil all of the role requirements. This role is not open to the Head of Department, Deputy Head of Department or Heads of Architecture or Civil Engineering.  

The Cluster Lead in the Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering will have certain responsibilities related to the subject cluster, as well as responsibilities across the Department. 

The main duties are to:

• Lead the Subject Cluster towards enhanced success in research and/or education (some clusters may be education focussed while it is anticipated the majority will be both research and education).
• Foster a community of diversity and inclusion in the cluster and wider Department.
• Ensure effective representation of the cluster and Department’s interests within the cluster, within the Department, across the wider University and outside the University.
• Within the last year of the appointment, work collaboratively with and mentor your replacement to enable a smooth transition.
• Line manage cluster staff including conducting SDPRs, pastoral support and professional development to the members of the cluster
• Work in collaboration with the Head of Department, Deputy Head of Department and other departmental staff to ensure workload for cluster staff is fair and manageable.

The term of the appointment will be 3 years. 

For an informal discussion, please contact Prof Jun Zang, Deputy Head of Department, at [email protected] , or Prof Andrew Heath, Head of Department, at [email protected] .  

You will be a kind and culturally aware leader who fosters an environment where every individual is valued and respected, regardless of their background or identity.   You will proactively seek out diverse perspectives, recognising the richness and creativity this brings to decision-making and problem-solving. You will remain optimistic in the face of challenges, seeing them as opportunities for growth and innovation. You will understand that change is inevitable and necessary, actively encouraging your team to adapt and evolve. By promoting a culture of openness and inclusivity, coupled with a willingness to listen as well as a readiness to embrace change, you will create a dynamic and empowered team that can thrive in today’s rapidly changing world.

What we can offer you:

We aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated, respected and encouraged. We have an excellent international reputation with staff from over 60 different nations and have made a positive commitment towards gender equality and intersectionality receiving a Silver Athena SWAN award . We truly believe that diversity of experience, perspectives, and backgrounds will lead to a better environment for our employees and students, so we encourage applications from all genders, backgrounds, and communities, particularly from under-represented groups, and value the positive impact that will have on our teams. 

We are very proud to be an autism friendly university and are an accredited Disability Confident Leader; committed to building disability confidence and supporting disabled staff .

Find out from our staff what makes the University of Bath a great place to work. Follow us @UniofBath and @UniofBathJobs on Twitter for more information.

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