Professorship of Mechanical Engineering (1997)

The Board of Electors to the Professorship of Mechanical Engineering (1997) invite applications for this Professorship to take up appointment on 1 October 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter. The Department of Engineering is one of the few truly integrated engineering departments in the world. It is also the largest department in the University of Cambridge, with this breadth and scale bringing about unique advantages. The research portfolio develops pinnacles of world-class excellence, which adapt and combine to address a vast array of engineering challenges. Cambridge is consistently ranked as a world leader in Mechanical Engineering. Candidates will have an outstanding research record of international stature in mechanical engineering. They will provide vision, leadership, experience, and enthusiasm to the Engineering Department's Mechanics, Materials and Design Division to maintain and develop a leading research presence. Candidates will hold a PhD or equivalent postgraduate qualification. The following potential research areas are highlighted: experimental mechanics, robotics, energy materials, medical devices, dynamics and vibrations and modelling and simulation, although applicants in other research areas within the broad field of mechanical engineering with an emphasis on solids are also welcomed. Standard professorial duties include teaching and research, examining, supervision and administration. The Professor will be based in Cambridge. A competitive salary will be offered. The University of Cambridge will be advised and supported in this appointment process by their executive search partner Perrett Laver. For further details, including the job description, person specification, and information on how to apply, please visit https://plusportal.perrettlaver.com/ quoting the reference number 8564. Applications should consist of: • a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria in the Person Specification (see Further Particulars); • a curriculum vitae (CV); • a full publications list; • a statement of no more than three pages in length covering professional, teaching and research experience and your future research plans; • details of three referees. The closing date for applications is 09.00am (BST) on Friday 16th October 2026. For an informal and confidential discussion about this position, please contact Dr Devin Dattan at Perrett Laver via Devin.Dattan@perrettlaver.com. The Board of Electors will meet soon after the closing date to produce a short list of candidates. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Department to take part in informal meetings with staff, give a short seminar/lecture and attend a formal interview. This process is expected to conclude in early 2027. Please quote reference NM51179 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy. The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.