Robert and Ann Oxley Professorial Chair in Engineering

Northern Engineering and Robotics Innovation Centre School of Science, Engineering and Environment

The University of Salford invites applications from Electronics Engineering researchers for the distinguished Robert and Ann Oxley Professorial Chair in Engineering, based at the Northern Engineering and Robotics Innovation Centre (NERIC), part of the School of Science, Engineering and Environment. This is a unique opportunity for an internationally recognised researcher to contribute to the continued growth of applied research and innovation in engineering, robotics, automation, and intelligent systems.

NERIC is a purpose-built centre supporting academic and industrial collaboration in areas such as robotics, advanced manufacturing, functional materials, microtechnology, intelligent sensing, and autonomous systems. Supported by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and other partners, NERIC provides cutting-edge engineering facilities, including industrial robot labs, manufacturing metrology facilities, and a microfabrication cleanroom. Positioned within NERIC, the Professorial Chair will play a pivotal role in driving excellence in research and innovation in electronic engineering, developing external partnerships, and supporting staff and student development.

This role is funded by a donation from the estate of Robert and Ann Oxley. The Oxley mission was to push the boundaries of thought and develop unique solutions, and the Professorial Chair should embody the spirit of creativity and innovation that is key to the Oxley legacy.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a world-class research programme in electronic engineering, with strong interdisciplinary applications, for example in areas such as robotics, autonomous systems, sensing technologies, and intelligent control systems.
• Align activities to contribute positively to the University purpose of innovating to enrich lives and creating a more just and equitable society.
• Supervise and mentor a team of researchers, including two fully funded Research Associates who will support your programme, while developing a thriving research group.
• Build and sustain national and international collaborations, particularly with academic, industrial and governmental stakeholders.
• Secure substantial external research funding (UKRI, Horizon Europe, Innovate UK, etc.), enabling the delivery of impactful research and associated publications.
• Produce high-quality publications and other research outputs with international recognition.
• Enhance the School’s teaching and learning strategy, contributing to postgraduate and undergraduate teaching, supervising doctoral students, and supporting curriculum innovation.
• Foster an inclusive, supportive and innovative academic culture aligned with the University’s values of equity, diversity, and inclusion, underpinned by an overarching commitment to generating collaborative advantage.
• Provide leadership within the University community, supporting the wider academic community through mentoring and participation in broader institutional initiatives.

 The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Hold a PhD in Electronic Engineering or a closely related field.
• Demonstrate an outstanding track record of internationally recognised research outputs and sustained external funding success.
• Possess a strong record of leadership and collaboration within multidisciplinary environments, ideally at the intersection of engineering, robotics and intelligent systems.
• Exhibit a proven ability to influence policy, innovation, or technology translation.
• Demonstrate commitment to high-quality teaching and the development of early-career researchers and students.
• Possess a track record of developing impact beyond academia.
• Demonstrate the ability to build partnerships inside and outside academia.
• Commit to inclusive academic practice and collaborative working.

 Why Salford?

At the University of Salford, the Professorial Chair will join a community committed to transforming lives through education, research and enterprise. You will benefit from:

• Access to state-of-the-art systems and facilities.
• Strategic institutional support to grow your research group and enhance impact.
• An inclusive environment that celebrates diverse perspectives and talents.
• Two fully funded Research Associates to support the delivery of a world-class research programme.

For full information please visit www.andersonquigley.com/Salford-Oxley.

Closing date for applications is noon on Monday 19 January 2026

We are committed to an inclusive approach to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion. We aim to have a more diverse workforce at all levels of the institution and particularly welcome applications from people from minority ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities, who are under-represented in our workforce. Please click here to see how we are creating an inspirational, inclusive learning and working environment, celebrating the diversity of our University community in our everyday conversations.