Job Summary
The position
The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) is seeking an outstanding scholar and a talented, visionary leader to be appointed as the Head of its Department of Academic Research (DAR).
The Institute is going through an exciting transitional period, which saw a new Director beginning in early 2023 as well as the approval of a new Strategic Plan to guide its activities over the next decade. The Institute is looking for an outstanding scholar and a talented and visionary leader to be appointed as the Head of its Department of Academic Research.
The role of the Head of Department of Academic Research is crucial in realising the mission and strategic aims of The Institute. As a leading academic institution in the fields of Islamic Studies, Ismaili Studies, Shi‘i Studies and Qur‘anic Studies, its research and publications shape the field and strengthen IIS’ position as making noteworthy contributions to these areas.
The candidate will have an outstanding academic profile, with extensive senior academic leadership and administrative experience, an extensive publication record, and exceptional multidisciplinary expertise in the Humanities and Islamic Studies. Excellent knowledge of Arabic and at least one other language relevant to Islamic Studies is required for this position, and proficiency in an additional European language is desired.
The Head of DAR is a key member of the senior leadership team and will oversee the strategic development of The Institute’s research agenda and will be responsible for driving excellence in programme development and delivery, faculty development, knowledge exchange, and community service. The postholder will develop a strategic vision and direction for The Institute’s futureresearch agenda, leading the implementation of multiple research projects that advance excellence in The Institute’s work with its academic stakeholders.
Departmental lead with overall responsibility for a major function/group of functions or defined activity. Will be part of the senior management team. Responsible for people within the function or activity at a strategic rather than operational level. Has major strategic input into financial matters related to the area of activity and has influence across the institution.
- Promotes a culture of improvement, exploring new approaches to strengthen performance and organisational effectiveness.
- Leads on and supports succession planning and staff development within the function.
- Monitors and evaluates the performance of the function/ group of functions.
- Drives equality, diversity and inclusion within the function ensuring any EDI outcomes are achieved.
- Promotes a collaborative and positive culture, building trust and alignment across functions and departments.
Required Skills
The requirements
What we are looking for:
- Develop and implement a strategic vision for The Institute’s research agenda, aligning with broader institutional goals in all fields of Islamic Studies.
- Oversee the strategic growth and positioning of The Institute as a global leader in Islamic Studies and humanities fostering innovative research and interdisciplinary approaches.
- Provide strategic leadership to the research units.
- Drive excellence in the development of research and academic programmes incorporating the latest methodologies and findings.
- Recruit, mentor and support faculty, researchers and staff in the department fostering an environment of academic rigor and intellectual growth.
- Establish partnerships with other academic and research institutions to promote collaborations and extend the Institute’s research impact.
- Monitor and uphold quality standards in research outputs and ensure that The Institute’s work meets academic benchmarks.
- Develop policies and frameworks to ensure research integrity and academic rigour.
Educational qualifications:
Essential Criteria:
- PhD in any field of Islamic Studies
- Proven record of interdisciplinary expertise in Islamic Studies.
Desirable Criteria:
- Fellow of Higher Education Academy at least on the level of Senior Fellow
Knowledge and experience:
Essential Criteria:
- Holds the rank of Full Professor; advanced Associate Professors with an exemplary record.
- Experience in setting and executing strategic plans, with a history of developing and implementing initiatives that align with organizational goals.
- Significant experience in senior academic leadership roles, ideally in an academic institution or research organisation.
- Strong command of advanced research methodologies, both qualitative and quantitative, applicable to the humanities and Islamic Studies.
- Extensive record of research and publications in relevant fields with articles in peer-reviewed journals, books or academic press, and other academic contributions that demonstrate expertise and showcase thought provoking leadership. Recognised by peers and the academic community, with evidence of influence in Islamic Studies or the humanities.
- Proven ability to design, implement and oversee research programmes and projects.
- Proven ability to implement faculty development programs and support researchers in achieving their scholarly goals.
- Fluent in Arabic and at least one other relevant language (e.g., Persian, Urdu, Turkish) to engage with primary sources in Islamic Studies.
Desirable Criteria:
- Multidisciplinary understanding across the humanities, such as history, philosophy, and cultural studies, to support diverse research.
- Knowledge of emerging trends in Islamic scholarship and the ability to incorporate innovative approaches into research.
- Understanding of The Institute's mission and objectives, with a keen awareness of its academic and community service goals.
- Proficiency in an additional European language is desirable for accessing a broader range of scholarly works.
Skills and abilities
Essential Criteria:
- Successful track record of leading interdisciplinary projects, ideally involving collaboration with other academic institutions or research bodies.
- Proven ability to manage budgets, allocate resources effectively, and secure research funding through grants or partnerships.
- Experience in conceptualising and organising conferences, workshops, and public lectures to engage academic and broader community audiences.
Personal qualities
Essential Criteria
- Ability to lead teams effectively, managing timelines, resource allocation and project outcomes.
- Strong project management skills, capable of overseeing multiple, concurrent research projects from concept to completion.
- Ability to communicate complex academic research to diverse audiences, including non-specialists, students and community members.
To apply submit your CV and covering letter before the closing date 14 November 2025.
