The Royal College of Art is the most influential university of art and design in the world. Founded in 1837, it is the world’s largest community of postgraduate-only art and design students, the oldest art and design university in continuous operation, and has been ranked as the world’s number one art & design university for a remarkable eleven consecutive years (QS World Subject Rankings 2015–24). 

Under the leadership of our new President & Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christoph Lindner, we are pursuing an ambitious strategic vision for 2030. Our focus is on generating new knowledge and insights from research; enhancing our teaching excellence, which will be continuously informed by new research knowledge; and translating knowledge, skills and insights to bring about economic, societal and cultural benefit through UK and international partnerships. 

Research at the RCA is rooted in creative practice and focused on addressing today’s global challenges, from climate change and the circular economy to a healthy ageing society and the future of AI. Our distinctive research culture interrogates the systems that integrate design into daily life, dealing with designed objects, services, and the ways in which they are produced and used. Established over 30 years ago to explore inclusive design for an ageing population, the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design (HHCD) is the RCA’s longest-running research centre and increasingly relevant in this complex world. The HHCD examines inclusive design through the themes of healthcare, age and ability, delivering positive impact for individuals and society, healthcare and wellbeing providers, third sector organisations and business, with partners ranging from insurance companies to NHS trusts.  

It is in this context that the RCA now seeks to appoint a new Director for the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Design. Reporting to the Pro Vice-Chancellor Research & Innovation, this role will continue to bring vision and leadership to the Helen Hamlyn Centre, promoting excellence in research with impact, ensuring it remains the world’s leading centre for inclusive design.

The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record in inclusive design, research leadership, grant capture and external relationships. They will be an academic leader at reader, associate professor or professorial level, with an internationally recognised research profile in a discipline relevant to the Centre’s inclusive design focus. They will be able to demonstrate innovation, vision, creativity and drive to enhance research capacity and maximise potential, supporting and collaborating with colleagues.

The Royal College of Art will be supported in this appointment by executive search firm Perrett Laver. Any initial enquiries should be directed to Arshya Dayal at arshya.dayal@perrettlaver.com or +44 (0)20 3928 7392.

For further details on how to apply, please visit https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies quoting reference number 7848. Candidates wishing to apply should submit a CV (including comprehensive details of key achievements and responsibilities) along with a covering letter which fully addresses the competencies outlined in the role description and person specification.  

The closing date for applications is 9:00 BST on Tuesday 27th May.     

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