About us
Manchester Metropolitan University is where ambition leads to outstanding achievement. Named The Times and Sunday Times Modern University of the Year 2026 and awarded TEF Gold for teaching excellence, Manchester Met. is recognised for research impact, with 90% rated world-leading or internationally excellent. The University is celebrated for its exceptional Knowledge Exchange performance and has been consistently ranked by People & Planet among the top five most sustainable universities for more than a decade, including four first-place rankings.
The Faculty of Science and Engineering has played a central role in the University's achievements and is undergoing an exciting period of transformation. We are now entering a new phase of development, bringing together coherent disciplines and subject areas into a new School structure. As we embark on this new chapter, we are seeking a dynamic and visionary Head of the School to lead a newly established and ambitious School of Biological and Chemical Sciences.
The School of Biological and Chemical Sciences combines expertise in biology, biomedical science, biodiversity, biotechnology, ecology, species conservation, chemistry, microbiology, and physiology to drive innovation in the science of life. Aligned with national and regional priorities, it supports the UK Life Sciences Strategy and Greater Manchester's ambition for health and materials innovation. With a vibrant portfolio spanning life sciences and chemistry, the School delivers internationally recognised, interdisciplinary research and education. Its collaborative approach fosters creativity, discovery, and real-world impact–building partnerships across academia, industry, and healthcare to advance knowledge, promote health equity, and position the School as a leader in shaping the future of science and innovation.
The opportunity
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to shape a School from the ground up, building on major recent investments including the new £115m Dalton Building and the continuing Road to 2030 professorial campaign. You will have the platform and resources to drive rapid growth and firmly establish the School as a leader in its field. It is a chance to create something exceptional: a School recognised nationally and internationally for research excellence, outstanding education, and innovative partnerships.
The successful candidate will bring an internationally recognised track record in teaching and research in a relevant area of life sciences. They will be able to demonstrate the requisite leadership skills and management experience to provide inspirational and effective leadership to the School of Biological and Chemical Sciences.
We encourage you to arrange a discussion with our search partner, Perrett Laver, to find out more about the opportunity.