Lecturer/ Associate Professor

About us

The Department of Philosophy at UCL is one of the leading philosophy departments in the UK. In the 2021 REF, 60% of our overall profile received the top grade (4*), the highest of any UK philosophy department.

We offer several undergraduate degree programmes. Undergraduate first-year modules usually consist of two hour-long lectures plus an hour-long seminar each week; second-year modules usually involve a one-hour lecture plus a one-hour seminar each week; third year modules usually consist of a weekly two-hour seminar.

We offer taught master’s programmes, and a prestigious research master’s and PhD. Postgraduate-level modules usually consist of a weekly two-hour seminar.

In collaboration with the Department of Computer Science, we run a BA in Philosophy and Computer Science, and in 2026 introduced an MASc in Philosophy, Logic and Artificial Intelligence.

The department has great advantages as a centre of research activity. The many research seminars, talks and lectures that take place in the various London colleges, the Institute of Philosophy in the University of London, the Institute of Classical Studies, the Aristotelian Society and the Royal Institute of Philosophy, all offer a wealth of opportunities.

The post is offered on an open-ended, full-time basis, with an ideal start date of 1 September 2027.

As London’s Global University, we are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates whose backgrounds are underrepresented in Philosophy.

About the role

Main purpose of the job

We are looking for a candidate whose main research lies in the philosophy of computer science and/or artificial intelligence, and who will contribute to the teaching and development of our two joint degrees with Computer Science and help build research connections between the departments. We welcome candidates working anywhere at the interface of philosophy and computing, including the philosophy of cognitive science, the foundations of machine learning, and the ethical and social dimensions of AI. We are open to a wide range of approaches. This appointment is intended to complement our existing strengths in logic and the philosophy of mathematics.

The appointment will be made at either Lecturer (Grade 8) or Associate Professor (Grade 9) level.

Application
Applications will be made online. When you apply, you will need to submit:
• a CV;
• a cover letter, of no more than two sides;
• two writing samples, totalling no more than 20,000 words.

Important: You will also need to arrange for two referees to submit letters of reference prior to the published closing date. Letters should be addressed to Professor Daniel Rothschild at philosophy.letters@ucl.ac.uk.

About you

A PhD in a relevant field, awarded before the start date. Clear evidence of excellence in philosophical research at a level commensurate with the grade of the job applied for (Lecturer or Associate Professor).

What we offer

As well as the exciting opportunities this role presents we also offer some great benefits some of which are below: 41 Days holiday (including 27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days) Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE) Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan On-Site nursery On-site gym Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service Discounted medical insurance

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.

We particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including those from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people, and – for Grade 9 and 10 roles – women.

Read more: UCL Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

Applicants should also familiarise themselves with UCL’s policies on: Prevention of Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Policy and Personal Relationships Policy