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TEACHING FELLOW IN ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Fixed-Term for up to one year (maternity cover)
Ref Number: KU00000344
1. Keele University
Keele University is a world-class campus-based university committed to providing the highest
quality learning and living environment in which our students and researchers can flourish. The
University makes a unique contribution to higher education in its continued commitment to
encouraging interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary education and research. The University is
consistently in the top ten UK universities for student satisfaction and Keele graduates are highly
prized for their flexibility of thought and the maturity of their social skills.
Keele was the first new post-war UK University of the 20th century and exemplified the innovation
and idealism of the post-war generations, offering a bold, alternative vision for Higher Education.
The University College of North Staffordshire was founded in 1949 and received its Charter as the
University of Keele in 1962. There was a deliberate aim to break away from the pattern of the
specialized honours degree, avoiding as far as possible the divisions between different branches of
study. While there have been changes, the coherence of Keele’s academic vision remains. Half of
our undergraduate students still study two subjects to honours level.
Keele research also helps shape the world – whether it is battling malaria or discovering new
planets. The most recent RAE classified 97% of the University’s research as world leading and of
international importance. The innovations and discoveries of Keele academics are key contributors
to wider social and global issues.
A key strategic aim of the University is to promote a campus environment that embraces and
promotes sustainability, and to become a sustainable community. Keele campus has a range of
energy sources that provide a unique test-bed for research, which can make important
contributions to the development of knowledge and new technologies in this area. The
Sustainability Hub, located in a restored 19th Century farm to the north of the campus, is a flagship
building for teaching and learning. The Hub brings together universities, researchers, local
communities, schools, national and international experts, and those wishing to learn about
sustainability.
As a world class university, Keele has connections across the globe. The University is in contact
with more than 43,000 of its alumni in 139 countries. This global network includes senior diplomats
and politicians, leading business people and officials in international NGOs, such as the UN. Our
research is also increasingly international in its partnerships, with strong links in every continent.
On campus there is the opportunity to experience a truly international flavour, as the diversification
of our student population now sees more than 120 countries represented at Keele, while nearly all
undergraduate students get the opportunity to spend a semester abroad as part of their studies at
one of the University’s 50 plus partner universities worldwide.
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Keele University - Facts and Figures:
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University of the Year for Student Experience (The Times and The Sunday Times annual
University of the Year awards, 2017)
1st for Student Satisfaction 2014, 2015, 2016 (National Student Survey)
1st for Student Satisfaction with Course (Guardian University League Table, 2017)
1st for Employment (HESA - Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education, 2016)
1st for Affordability (marbles.com, 2016)
Top 4% of the world’s universities (Times Higher Education World University Rankings,
2015 - 2016)
97% of our research was classified as world leading, or of international importance
(Research Excellence Framework, 2014)
UK’s largest, and one of its most attractive, university campuses, with 617 acres of
landscaped parkland, fields, woodlands and lakes.
Ranked 6th place in the Daily Telegraph’s ‘Britain’s most beautiful universities’ guide.
Safest campus in the West Midlands in the BBC news league tables for crime rates.
Invested over £115 million in our campus and infrastructure.
There are over 3,000 bedrooms on campus and we have one of the highest proportions of
student rooms owned and managed by a university.
We are in contact with more than 45,000 alumni living in 146 countries.
2. School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability are part of the newly formed School of
Geography, Geology and the Environment, which has its base in the William Smith Building. The
School is responsible for running ten individual degree programmes and also contributes to a
number of programmes run by other Schools, as well as working closely with the Faculty Research
Office to provide an excellent infrastructure to enable staff to pursue high-quality, internationallyrecognised research.
The School consists of 34 academic staff, 5 administrative staff, and 7 technical staff, and provides
an excellent environment for both teaching and research, a significant proportion of which is
interdisciplinary. The School prides itself on the approachability and quality of its staff and has a
strong commitment to providing high quality educational programmes, with a nationally leading
reputation for innovation in teaching, recognised by many awards, invited talks and teaching
innovation grants. Staff within the School have strong connections with the Higher Education
Academy and have an impressive track record of receiving grants for developing innovative
teaching activities and pedagogical research. Two members of the School hold National Teaching
Fellowships. Many Teaching Innovation Awards have been obtained and numerous members of
staff within the School have been recipients of the Keele Teaching Excellence Award. The postholder will be expected to share in the culture of teaching excellence and innovation, and to
demonstrate a commitment to the teaching and development of our environmental programmes
and the promotion of these programmes through a range of recruitment and outreach activities.
The School has close links with the Faculty Research Office to provide an excellent research
infrastructure, with many staff pursuing internationally recognised research. The School is also
very active in delivering the University’s Widening Participation strategy and many staff members
have an outstanding reputation for promoting their subject areas to the public via outreach
activities, supported by substantial external grants. Additionally, the School has been awarded an
Athena SWAN Bronze Award for commitment to recruiting and progressing women in science,
engineering and technology (SET).
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3. Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability at Keele
Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability are part of the School of Geography,
Geology and the Environment, which is part of the Faculty of Natural Sciences. Keele offers a dual
honours degree pathway in Environmental Science, which is read in combination with another
subject for three years. The most popular combinations with Environmental Science currently
include Biology, Geography and Physical Geography. The Environmental Science degree course
is fully interdisciplinary, and has core material taught by staff from biology, chemistry, geology, and
geography backgrounds, with some optional modules giving students the opportunities to cover
environmental topics from social science perspectives. Students, if they so wish, may concentrate
solely on environmental science modules in their final year, enabling Environmental Science to be
identified as the Major principal subject within the dual honours degree. This development
combines the advantages of the dual honours system with the opportunity for specialization. In
addition, a Single Honours Environmental Science degree route has been introduced recently for
those students who wish to focus entirely on environmental science topics. Similarly, a highly
interdisciplinary Single Honours Environment and Sustainability programme has been running
since 2009 and has proven very popular for those undergraduate students who want to
concentrate on environmental and sustainability topics during the three years of their degree
studies. Both the Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability degree programmes
are accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences.
This post is partly linked to a ‘3+1’ collaboration/articulation in Environment and Sustainability with
Nanjing Xiaozhuang University (NXU) in China, which began in 2010/11 and received its first
cohort from NXU taking the final year of the Environment and Sustainability programme at Keele in
2013/14. This collaboration requires the delivery of bridging modules by Keele staff that include
one module delivered by distance learning in both the students’ years 2 and 3, and three modules
delivered in China in both years 2 and 3. The person appointed to this post may make a
contribution to the delivery of the bridging modules and will be expected to have a significant input
into the delivery of the final year of the programme at Keele, including the pastoral and academic
support of the NXU students.
Throughout the Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability degree programmes,
we emphasise the career-relevance of the discipline and have strong links with local environmental
employers. In addition, both programmes provide students with the option of taking a work
placement year. Staff within Geography, Geology and the Environment have strong connections
with the Higher Education Academy and have had several grant successes for developing
innovative teaching activities and pedagogical research. The new Teaching Fellow in
Environmental and Sustainability will be expected to show a commitment to the teaching and
development of environmental science and environment and sustainability, and be involved with
promoting these subject areas through a range of recruitment and outreach activities.
Within the School of Geography, Geology and the Environment and other parts of the Faculty of
Natural Sciences, there is considerable expertise in the physical environment, environmental
science, renewable and sustainable energy and clean and environmental technology,
environmental analysis, pollution abatement, terrestrial ecology, hydrogeochemistry, chemical
ecology, and the public understanding of science and environmental citizenship, both in terms of
teaching and research. There is also major expertise in social and economic aspects of the
environment, sustainable development and regeneration and environmental policy in the School of
Politics, International Relations and the Environment. This has enabled a very strong
interdisciplinary environmental grouping to be established, which is gathering increasing
momentum and is very well placed to take advantage of new environmental and sustainability
initiatives. In addition, we have introduced a highly interdisciplinary MSc course in Environmental
Sustainability and Green Technology that draws upon Keele’s internationally recognised expertise
in research and teaching on environmental issues.
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4. Job Outline
We wish to appoint a one-year, fixed-term Teaching Fellow in Environment and Sustainability (1
FTE) to provide maternity cover for one of our existing staff as well as to make a substantial
contribution to our thriving undergraduate programmes in the environment, underpinning continued
significant growth in Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability at Keele.
Applications are welcomed from individuals with a proven track record of academic achievement
who are committed to providing high-quality teaching in Environmental Science and Environment
and Sustainability, supporting an excellent student experience, and who are able and willing to
provide flexible teaching support across a range of environmental subjects.
Applications are welcomed from enthusiastic teachers from all areas of Environmental Science and
Environment and Sustainability; however, we particularly welcome applications from candidates
with a strong interdisciplinary background and commitment and passion for sustainability. The
successful candidate will have, or be near to completing, a higher degree in an environmental
science or environment and sustainability related discipline, and will have the ability and
willingness to teach across a range of environmental topics and become actively involved in
developing and delivering high quality undergraduate teaching and associated assessment in
Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability, including supervising final year
undergraduate research projects and the development and delivery of the Environmental field
course programme. The position may also involve contributing to undergraduate teaching in China
as part of a collaborative arrangement with Nanjing Xiaozhuang University, as well as
administrative duties within Environment and Sustainability and actively contributing to recruitment
activities.
5. Applicant Information
The post offered is a Teaching Fellow in Environmental and Sustainability (one-year fixed term, 1
FTE) and is available from 3rd January 2017, or as soon as possible thereafter.
6. Enquiries
Informal enquiries may be made to Dr Stuart Egan, Head of School, Tel: 01782 733174; email
[email protected] or Dr Zoe Robinson, University Director of Education for Sustainability and
Programme Director for Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability, Tel: 01782
734303; email [email protected]
7. Closing Date
The closing date is 10 January 2017
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Post Ref:
KU00000344
TEACHING FELLOW IN ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Job Description
School/RI/Directorate:
School of Geography, Geology and the Environment
Responsible to:
Head of School
Responsible for:
N/A
Grade:
Grade: Grade 7
Incremental Scale: Yes
Starting Salary: £ 32,004
Hours:
1 FTE
Role Summary:
The post-holder is responsible to the Head of School, and will undertake, effectively and efficiently,
teaching and administrative duties as may be assigned by the Head of School.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
Work Processes and results
Teaching duties and responsibilities
 To deliver lectures, distance learning, seminars, tutorials, and practical and field classes in
Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability in support of the required teaching
obligations, and to supervise project work of undergraduate students.
 There may be the requirement to deliver teaching and assessment activities in China as part of
our international collaboration with Nanjing Xiaozhuang University, China
 To deliver academic and pastoral support to students from Nanjing Xiaozhuang University on
our Environment and Sustainability programme, and to assist in the administration of this
programme
 To contribute to the existing modules on our undergraduate and postgradaute programmes, as
well as contributing to the practical class programme and participation in local and, possibly,
overseas field courses.
 To co-operate with colleagues in the continuous review and development of the curriculum for
existing programmes and in the design, development, and launch of new programmes in
Environmental Science and Environment and Sustainability at Keele.
 To undertake academic duties such as the setting of examination papers and marking
according to School and University procedures, and to sustain the high level of teaching quality
offered by the School.
 To provide support and guidance for students in their studies and to undertake pastoral support
of students.
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To provide administrative support and guidance for staff and students related to academic
misconduct cases associated with the Nanjing Xiaozhuang University collaborative degree
programme.
To actively contribute to the School’s recruitment activities, including participating in the
School’s programme of Visit and Offer Holder Days.
To maintain a broad knowledge of up-to-date research and scholarship in relevant fields to
ensure that teaching is of the quality expected of a leading University.
To comply with University standards and procedures for ensuring teaching quality and to
develop, support, and comply with the School’s standards and procedures.
Administrative duties and responsibilities:
 To undertake any specific task as may be reasonably requested by the Head of School.
 To attend all School and subject meetings, and to participate in other committees and working
groups within the School, Faculties, and University.
 To engage in Continuous Professional Development, particularly through participation in
relevant staff development programmes.
 To participate in relevant professional activities.
 To undertake, subject to School or University approval, relevant external commitments that will
enhance the reputation of the School and University.
 To ensure compliance with health and safety requirements at all times and in all aspects of
work.
Team Work
 Liaise closely with colleagues to develop teaching areas, as appropriate.
 Co-ordinate with other areas of the University and external parties as required.
Communication / Documentation
 Communicate effectively across a wide range of audiences.
 Liaise, establish and maintain positive links with external agencies and providers.
Supervision
 Ability to initiate work independently and work autonomously with a minimum of supervision
required;
Personal Development / Performance
 Demonstrate a commitment to continuing Personal/Professional Development.
 Ability to observe and define priorities and timetables in the achievement of strategic and
operational objectives.
 Adhere to the University's environmental policy and procedures and seek to promote
environmental sustainability within area of responsibility.
Equality, Diversity, Health and Safety and Strategy
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A strong commitment to the principles and practice of equality and diversity.
Thorough understanding and application of the Dignity and Respect Framework.
Take reasonable care of the Health and Safety of yourself and that of any other person who
may be affected by your acts or omissions at work.
Co-operate with Keele University in ensuring as far as is necessary, that Statutory
Requirements, Codes of Practice, University Policies and School/Departmental health and
safety arrangements are complied with.
This is not intended as an exhaustive list of duties or a restrictive definition of the post but rather
should be read as a guide to the main priorities and typical areas of activity of the post-holder
These activities are subject to amendment over time as priorities and requirements evolve and as
such it may be amended at any time by the line manager following discussion with the post holder.
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This post may meet the relevant criteria to allow the University to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship
to non-EEA nationals who wish to come to work in the UK through Tier 2 of the Points Based
Immigration System. For information on the sponsorship system, please visit the UK Visas and
Immigration website at https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-visas-and-immigration.
You are advised to assess your circumstances against the criteria set out in the UKVI policy
guidance, available at https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration. UK NARIC provides advice
and guidance on international qualifications at UK NARIC Visas and Nationality
References
You are asked to provide details of two referees (three if you are applying for an academic or
research post), including your current or most recent employer, on your application form. Referees
should be able to comment on your work and/or educational background and may be approached
before interview. In providing these details you are giving the University permission to request
personal information about you from your referees, which may include confirmation of your
previous salary, disciplinary and work history.
Two Ticks Scheme
Keele University is committed to taking positive steps to employ, keep and
develop the abilities of disabled staff and has been awarded the disability symbol.
We undertake to offer all applicants with a disability and who meet the minimum
essential criteria an interview. If you wish to be considered under this scheme,
please indicate this by selecting ‘Yes’ in the Guaranteed Interview Scheme Section of your
application. You can also provide specific information of any requirements/adjustments you may
require to assist you during the recruitment process within this section.
The information you provide on your application will be forwarded to the recruiting area so that they
may consider whether they can facilitate your requested adjustments. Please note that if you do
not indicate that you wish to be considered under the Two Ticks Scheme in your
application, you will not be considered under this Scheme.
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POST REF KU00000344
PERSON SPECIFICATION
TEACHING FELLOW IN ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
Criteria
Headings
Qualifications/
Education/
Training
Essential

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Experience
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
Skills /
Aptitudes/
Competencies
Degree or equivalent
qualification in
Environmental Science
and/or Environment and
Sustainability-related
discipline
Have or be near to
completing, a higher
degree in an
environmental science
or environment and
sustainability-related
discipline
Experience of teaching
Environmental Science
and/or Environment and
Sustainability in a range
of higher education
learning environments
including tutorials,
lectures, practical
classes and field
courses.
Experience of
assessment and the
organisation of the
assessment process
within higher education.

Ability to work across
the environmental
science and
environment and
sustainability disciplines

Ability to develop,
support and deliver high
quality undergraduate
Evidenced
by:
A
Desirable
Evidenced
by:

PhD in
Environmental
Science and/or
Environment and
Sustainability-related
discipline

Experience of
developing and
delivering outreach
and public
engagement
activities.
Running
undergraduate field
days
A, I, P

Ability to demonstrate
a record of teaching
innovation.
A, I, P

Ability to develop
high quality learning
materials and
activities for face-to-
A, I, P
A
A
A, I, P

A, I, P
A, I, P
A, I, P
A, I, P
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teaching in
Environmental Science
and/or Environment and
Sustainability.
face and online
delivery.

Ability to develop new
teaching materials to
enhance student
engagement.

Ability to develop high
quality learning
materials and activities
for face-to-face and
online delivery.
A&I

Ability to organise and
support field work
activities.
A, I, P

Excellent oral and
written communication
and interpersonal skills.

Ability to initiate work
independently and to
work effectively as part
of a teaching team.

Excellent IT and
numeracy skills and
familiarity with a virtual
learning environments.

Ability to carry out
administrative duties
willingly and effectively
A, I, P
A&I
A&I
A, I, P
A, I,
For full post details and to apply, please visit: www.keele.ac.uk/vacancies
Keele University employees wishing to apply for this vacancy should login to Employee Self
Service and click on the 'View current vacancies' link.
Closing date for applications: 10 January 2017
Post reference: KU00000344
Promoting Equality, Valuing Diversity.
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