The Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) is an internationally recognised leader in global health research and education. We are seeking an experienced Reader or Professor in Anthropology in Global Health to lead world-class research and teaching aligned with LSTM's mission: "Improving health outcomes in disadvantaged populations globally through partnership in research and education."
This is an exceptional opportunity for a research leader in applied anthropology who is passionate about advancing health equity, particularly in the Majority world. The role focuses on expanding interdisciplinary research, mentoring researchers, and strengthening global partnerships, especially across Africa and the Global South.
You will join a vibrant and multidisciplinary environment at LSTM, working alongside clinicians, epidemiologists, social scientists, entomologists, and health systems researchers. This is a strategic academic leadership role with significant responsibility for research, teaching, and institutional influence.
Key Responsibilities
Research and scholarship
Formulate and deliver a strategic vision for anthropology in global health
Undertake and lead internationally excellent research with high translational impact
Develop research on themes such as resilience in fragile settings, indigenous knowledge, decolonisation, digital health, and lived experience
Contribute to LSTM's Research Excellence Framework (REF) return
Secure major research grants and lead multi-disciplinary programmes
Supervise and examine PhD and MSc students
Support capacity strengthening and career development for early- and mid-career researchers
Academic leadership and capacity strengthening
Develop LSTM's reputation in applied anthropology through innovation and thought leadership
Mentor junior staff and lead cross-disciplinary research initiatives
Collaborate with academics globally to build research capacity and infrastructure
Support equity and inclusion in research and education
Contribute to strategic planning, policy development, and institutional governance
Partnership and programme development
Build and strengthen collaborations with partners in Africa and the Majority world, including LSTM global hubs in Malawi, Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe
Lead grant consortia and engage with international collaborators
Generate research income through strategic bids and contracts
Work in partnership with communities and people with lived experience
Research uptake and stakeholder engagement
Translate research findings into policy and practice
Contribute to public discourse on anthropology and global health
Support development of technical briefs, guidelines, and strategic communications
Research governance and operations
Ensure ethical, safe, and inclusive research practices
Promote good governance in programme delivery and financial management
Contribute to LSTM-wide strategies, including those focused on safeguarding and EDI
Represent LSTM in external policy, academic, and stakeholder networks
Dissemination
Publish high-quality research in peer-reviewed journals
Present at international conferences and policy forums
Lead thought pieces and influence global debates in anthropology and global health
Qualifications & Experience
PhD in anthropology or closely related discipline
Established international reputation in applied anthropology and global health
Outstanding record of high-impact peer-reviewed publications
Extensive research experience in the Majority world
Proven success in generating significant external research income
Demonstrated strategic leadership in research and partnerships
Experience of mentoring academic staff and supervising doctoral students
Proven ability to influence policy through evidence-based research
Knowledge of resilience, mental health, decolonisation, and related global health themes
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
Commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusive practice
Willingness to travel internationally
In Return, We Offer
30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and Christmas closure days
Generous pension schemes
Cycle to work scheme
Discounted University of Liverpool Sports Centre membership
Supportive, inclusive working environment
Application Process
To apply, click the apply link and upload your CV and a cover letter detailing how your experience meets the person specification. We may close the vacancy early due to high volume, so early application is encouraged.
Diversity & Inclusion at LSTM
We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects our community. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those returning after a career break. We especially encourage applications from women, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates, and people with disabilities. We welcome flexible working conversations.
About LSTM
Founded in 1898, LSTM is an internationally recognised centre of excellence in teaching and research in tropical diseases. Through partnerships with governments, NGOs, the private sector, and global institutions, we aim to improve health outcomes in disadvantaged populations worldwide.