The University of Edinburgh is seeking an outstanding and experienced leader to serve as Vice-Principal and Head of the College of Science and Engineering (CSE). This is an exceptional opportunity to provide strategic direction for one of the largest and most distinguished science and engineering groupings in the UK, within a truly world-leading research-intensive university.

Comprising seven academic Schools spanning Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Engineering, GeoSciences, Informatics, Mathematics and Physics and Astronomy, it is also home to two outstanding centres of excellence: EPCC, recently designated the UK's first National Supercomputing Centre, and the Bayes Centre, our innovation hub for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence.

Our REF 2021 results speak for themselves: 96% of CSE research was classed as world leading or internationally excellent, with 55% at the highest level. The new Vice-Principal will build on this outstanding foundation, helping to shape our REF 2029 preparations and ensuring the College continues to deliver research and education of global significance.

With over 11,000 students, 4,200 staff and an annual income of over £413 million, the College plays a central role in delivering the University's three strategic research missions: shaping the future of health and care; tackling the climate and environmental crisis; and harnessing data, digital and AI for public good. The successful candidate will champion these ambitions, deepen our industry and innovation partnerships through partnership with Edinburgh Innovations and Edinburgh Global, and ensure our teaching provision remains at the cutting edge, providing our students with a sector-leading student experience.

We are looking for a proven academic leader with the vision, integrity and collaborative instinct to lead a diverse and high-performing community, while also able to contribute collaboratively as a senior leader at Institutional level, aligning College and University requirements effectively. The successful candidate will have a distinguished record in research and/or teaching consistent with the rank of professor, a strong track record of delivering organisational change, and the interpersonal skills to operate effectively as part of the University's Senior Leadership Team.

This is a role of genuine national and international significance. It offers the chance to shape the future of science and engineering at one of the world's great universities and to deliver lasting benefit to society.

As a University, and Senior Leadership Team, we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcome applicants who reflect the diversity we wish to see in our staff and student community, including at senior levels.

For further details, including job description, person specification and information on how to apply, please visit: https://PLusPortal.PerrettLaver.com quoting reference 8444. 

The closing date for applications is Tuesday 30th June 2026. Interviews will take place on Thursday 30th and Friday 31st July in person in Edinburgh.

If you would like to discuss this opportunity further or have any questions about the role, please contact Harvir Bains at Harvir.Bains@perrettlaver.com.

For a conversation in confidence, please contact Harvir Bains on harvir.bains@perrettlaver.com.

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