Cambridge, UK (full-time or part-time, minimum 70% FTE considered)
Cambridge University Press & Assessment is a not-for-profit organisation and world leader in assessment, education, research and academic publishing.
We are part of the University of Cambridge and share its mission 'to contribute to society through the pursuit of education, learning and research at the highest international levels of excellence'. This connection gives us unrivalled depth of experience in research, academic publishing, national education systems, international education and English language learning, teaching and assessment.
We explore, collaborate and innovate to find bold new ways to spread knowledge, spark enquiry and aid understanding. We help people across the world to realise their potential, benefiting society and the planet.
The Director of IELTS Research is the senior academic and strategic lead for IELTS research and part of the Cambridge English research team. As an internationally recognised authority in language assessment, the appointee will define and drive the strategic research vision for IELTS, ensuring that all research initiatives strengthen regulatory trust, global recognition, product innovation and IELTS' contribution to Cambridge's mission. Sitting on the IELTS Senior Leadership Team, the postholder will provide system-level leadership across research governance, strategic research foresight, stakeholder influence and thought leadership, shaping IELTS' evidence base and ensuring that research excellence informs high-stakes decision-making across the IELTS partnership.
You will lead the long-term IELTS research strategy, short-term research plan and the strategic foresight that anticipates emerging constructs, technologies including AI, market trends and policy developments. You will direct high-impact research programmes that drive innovation in assessment design, validation, scoring and delivery; act as the principal academic ambassador for IELTS in global policy forums and regulatory consultations; and build strategic partnerships with leading research institutions, policymakers and global stakeholders. The role carries direct responsibility for IELTS research budgets and reports into the Director of Research, English.
Cambridge University Press & Assessment wishes to encourage applications from senior leaders from a variety of backgrounds. Candidates will hold a PhD/EdD in language assessment or educational measurement, applied linguistics, or a closely related field, or have relevant industry experience in English language assessment. Through a strong academic record, they will offer internationally recognised expertise in language assessment theory, test validity, fairness, construct definition and assessment innovation. You will bring a proven record of designing and delivering large-scale research programmes, demonstrated strategic influence at senior levels, including with regulators and global partners, international engagement, and experience in budgeting, prioritisation and resource strategy. The ability to lead through complexity, ambiguity and change is essential, as is a commitment to the values and vision of Cambridge University Press & Assessment.
If you are interested in being part of a vibrant global community that's helping millions of people around the world and shaping the future of global education, then we encourage you to read more about this role by downloading further information by clicking on the "Request More Information" button below. The job reference is 8507.
For informal enquiries, please contact Research Associate, Isabella Newell at isabella.newell@perrettlaver.com or +44(0)20 3928 7424.
The deadline for receipt of applications is: 11:59pm BST on Monday 20th July 2026.
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