The School of Modern Languages invites applications for the position of Reader or Professor in its Department of Chinese. You must have an international research reputation in Chinese language, literary, and cultural studies including a proven track record of securing significant grant funding and leading high quality externally funded research projects. The successful candidate will be expected to have a range of interests and to be highly active in research publication that strengthens or complements those in the School. Applicants for a professorial post will, in addition, be expected to make an outstanding contribution to the field’s advancement through research outputs and to prominently represent the University of St Andrews in the UK and international communities.
Candidates must hold a PhD in a cognate discipline and you will be expected to be capable of teaching the subject to honours and taught postgraduate students from a wide range of backgrounds. The primary criteria for appointment will be evidence of an internationally recognised research record and a clear programme of anticipated research activity for the coming years. Applicants for a professorial post must, in addition, demonstrate a significant research funding record.
Employees of the University have access to a wide range of staff benefits including:
Annual leave of 34 days, plus 5 public holidays
- Financial contribution to relocation
- Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions
- A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies
- Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services
- Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel
- Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff, access to training and development opportunities including LinkedIn Learning, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme
Further information and informal enquiries about the post may be directed to Professor Nicki Hitchcott, Head of School, School of Modern Languages – email langshos@st-andrews.ac.uk
Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience and form a central pillar of the University Strategy. We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, Race Charters). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ Disabled and Neurodiverse staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities or Neurodiversity Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network. Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/
Interview Date: 19 February 2026 Closing Date: 19 January 2026
Please quote ref: AC2219LS
Job Description: AC2219LSFPs.pdf
School of Modern Languages
Salary: Reader Grade 8 £59,967 - £67,469 per annum / Professor Grade 9 by negotiation
Start Date: August 2026