Job Description

The University of Salford invites applications for the prestigious

Robert and Ann Oxley Professorial Chair in Engineering

, based at the Northern Engineering and Robotics Innovation Centre (NERIC) within the School of Science, Engineering and Environment. This is a unique opportunity for an internationally recognised researcher in Electronic Engineering to help drive forward world-leading applied research and innovation.


NERIC is a purpose-built facility that supports collaborative academic and industrial research across robotics, advanced manufacturing, functional materials, microtechnology, intelligent sensing and autonomous systems. Backed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and industry partners, NERIC offers cutting-edge facilities including industrial robot laboratories, manufacturing metrology suites and a microfabrication cleanroom. The post-holder will be central to strengthening research excellence in electronic engineering, developing strategic external partnerships and supporting staff and student development.


The Chair is funded by a generous donation from the estate of Robert and Ann Oxley, whose mission was to push the boundaries of knowledge and develop unique, innovative solutions. The successful candidate will embody this legacy of creativity, impact and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

Lead a world-class, interdisciplinary research programme in Electronic Engineering with applications in areas such as robotics, autonomous systems, sensing technologies and intelligent control. Contribute to the University's purpose of enriching lives through innovation and supporting a more just and equitable society. Supervise, mentor and develop a thriving research group, supported by

two fully funded Research Associates

. Build and sustain national and international collaborations with academic, industrial and governmental partners. Secure significant external research funding (e.g. UKRI, Horizon Europe, Innovate UK). Produce internationally recognised publications and high-quality research outputs. Contribute to teaching and learning at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervise doctoral students and support curriculum innovation. Foster an inclusive, collaborative and innovative academic culture aligned with the University's values of equity, diversity and inclusion. Provide wider academic leadership through mentoring and engagement in institutional initiatives.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

A PhD in Electronic Engineering or a closely related discipline. An outstanding international research profile with sustained success in external funding. Strong leadership and collaboration experience in multidisciplinary environments. A proven track record of influencing policy, innovation or technology translation. A commitment to high-quality teaching and the development of early-career researchers. Demonstrable research impact beyond academia. A commitment to inclusive academic practice and collaborative working.

Why Join Salford?

This role offers:

Access to state-of-the-art research facilities. Strategic institutional support to grow your research group and impact. An inclusive, supportive and ambitious academic environment. Two fully funded Research Associates to support your programme.
For full details, visit

www.andersonquigley.com/Salford-Oxley

Closing date: Noon, 19 January 2026.

The University of Salford is committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and particularly welcomes applications from individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities, who are currently under-represented in the workforce.