Professor in National Security and Defence Engineering

About us

The UCL Departments of Electronic & Electrical Engineering and Security and Crime Science are looking to appoint a Professor (Grade 10) to lead the work between the two departments related to National Security.

The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at UCL is recognised as one of the leading Departments for research in its subject area, worldwide. It has ranked 3rd in the Guardian's UK ranking by subject area and in the top 40 worldwide in the QS rankings. Current broad research themes within the department include:

  • AI and Intelligent Systems
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Control and Signal Processing
  • Future Communications
  • Instrumentation and Sensing
  • Neuromorphic Technologies
  • Photonic Systems and Integration
  • Quantum Technologies
  • Radar and RF Engineering

The Department of Security and Crime Science forms part of the UCL Jill Dando Institute (the JDI) and is the first university department in the world devoted to Crime Science. Research draws upon a variety of disciplines across the social, physical and life sciences, and is dedicated to finding ways to equip professionals working in crime and security fields with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The Department currently has around 30 academic staff, from disciplines including psychology, sociology, criminology, geography, political science, economics, mathematics, forensic science, electronic engineering, and computer science.

About the role

The post holder will be responsible for developing a cutting-edge research portfolio and take a lead role in developing new professional development courses in areas of relevance to the two departments. The post holder will play a key role in the expansion and consolidation of activities in the area between the two departments and across the faculty in support of the UCL research strategy.

The successful candidate will be expected to lead the collaboration between the two departments in teaching and research and support the development of collaborative activities, especially involving engagement with external entities concerned with national security.

They will strengthen the research portfolio of the departments as well as contributing to the teaching of the department at predominantly postgraduate level in topics related to security. The appointee will perform the normal administrative duties expected of a member of academic staff as required by the Heads of Departments.

About you

You have significant professional and/or academic experience in Security research and/or practice. You have demonstrated an ability to conduct innovative research and/or development in the field of cyber security and/or other security related areas, publish in top-tier journals, and secured external funding through grants and partnerships. You have experience in the provision of education/training to support the departments in developing our joint portfolio and deliver of courses in topics related to security.

You have a proven ability to build and maintain high-value strategic partnerships with Industry/Government partners in the field. You are used to working collaboratively with colleagues and external partners and provide mentorship to students and early career staff.

You will hold/be eligible for full UK Security Clearance, at Developed Vetting (DV) level which requires you to have resided in the UK for the past 10 years.

Application details:

  • A detailed job description and person specification can be accessed at the application link, as well as contact details for enquiries about the post.
  • To apply for the role, click the 'Apply' button. Applications close on 9th January 2026 at 23:59

Job Details

Company
UCL
Location
Slough, Berkshire, UK
Employment Type
Full-time
Posted