Lecturer in Natural Sciences (Biology / Chemistry)

About the Role

The School of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences is part of the Faculty of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). It brings together a multi-disciplinary team of academics with expertise in a broad range of subjects, providing a stimulating, collaborative and supportive teaching and research environment.

The School offers undergraduate qualifications in Biology, Natural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Chemistry, and Health Sciences and a postgraduate qualification in Mental Health Sciences, as well as hosting PhD students and research fellows.

Members of the School were submitted to REF2021 in Units of Assessment A3 (Allied Health Professions) and B12 (Engineering). For more information about our School, our research and our facilities please see https://www.open.ac.uk/science/life-health-chemical-sciences/.

Key Responsibilities

We are seeking to appoint a fixed-term lecturer in Natural Sciences to join the School of Life, Health and Chemical Sciences (LHCS) to support the development of our Stage 1 (the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) Level 4) Natural Sciences curriculum with experience in teaching biology or chemistry at this level, and to contribute to our research profile.

• Design and delivery of OU undergraduate modules in the Natural Sciences programme.
• Bring an imaginative approach to presenting science courses for a wide range of adult students.
• Contribute to the design, production, and presentation of asynchronous online materials.
• Work with key stakeholders and new technologies to ensure a future-focussed curriculum.
• Develop a research portfolio that synergises with the School’s research strategy, attracting external funding.
• Contribute to the University’s submission to future Research Excellence Framework exercises.

About You

Essential

• A PhD in Biology, Chemistry, Natural Sciences or a relevant discipline.
• Experience of teaching biology or chemistry at FHEQ undergraduate level 4.
• Experience of teaching at FHEQ undergraduate level 5 and above in a relevant area.
• Understanding of modern technologies for engaging learning opportunities.
• Evidence of ability to conduct research that complements the School’s research.
• Broad knowledge of developments in your discipline.
• Ability to work in accordance with the University’s values and policies.
• Excellent team working skills.

Desirable

• Understanding of supported open and distance learning.
• Experience of teaching within an interdisciplinary context.
• Experience of teaching both biology and chemistry at FHEQ undergraduate level 5 and above.
• Higher Education professional accreditation or equivalent teaching qualification.

What’s in it for you?

At [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], we offer a range of benefits. See our Staff Benefits page for details.

Flexible Working & Location

We are open to discussions about flexible working. A hybrid working pattern can be adopted, with attendance on the Milton Keynes campus when necessary.

How to Apply

To apply for this role please submit the following document(s):

• CV that includes details of academic qualifications, teaching and research experience, grants received and publications.
• Supporting Statement, up to 1,000 words, setting out why you’re interested and examples of how you meet the criteria.
• Research Plan, up to 400 words, outlining your plans for the next 3 years.

Upload these as 1 document. For queries, contact [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] quoting reference 1478.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

[Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all underrepresented groups.

Closing date: 11:59pm on Wednesday 27th May 2026

Job Ref: 1478