Teaching Associate (COS Available) At Aston University

Location: Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom
Salary: £38,249 to £42,882 per annum
Grade: Grade 08
Contract Type: Fixed Term (12 months)
Basis: Full Time
Certificate of Sponsorship: Available
Closing Date: 23:59 BST on Monday 09 June 2025
Interview Date: Wednesday 25 June 2025
Reference: 0081-25
Release Date: Monday 05 May 2025

Introduction: Aston University’s Commitment to Excellence

Aston University, located in the heart of Birmingham, offers a dynamic, supportive, and inclusive working environment. The institution is now seeking a Teaching Associate to join the School of Psychology and contribute to the development and delivery of accredited undergraduate and postgraduate psychology programs. This position offers a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS), making it an ideal opportunity for international candidates seeking work in the UK.

Role Overview: Teaching Associate Responsibilities

The Teaching Associate position at Aston University offers a unique opportunity for early-career academics to contribute to the vibrant academic community in the School of Psychology. As a Teaching Associate, you will be responsible for enhancing the teaching, learning, and scholarly activities of the department. Your responsibilities will include:

Key Responsibilities:

Delivering high-quality teaching in psychology, including both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Contributing to the development of new curricula and teaching materials.
Providing support to students through tutorials, workshops, and practical teaching sessions.
Engaging in academic scholarship and research activities in psychology, with a focus on health and wellbeing.
Collaborating with other academics and staff to improve the student learning experience.
Participating in departmental meetings and contributing to the broader academic activities of the School of Psychology.

This is an exciting opportunity for those with a passion for teaching and research in psychology to advance their academic careers while benefiting from Aston University’s commitment to development and professional growth.

Qualifications and Skills Required

To be considered for the Teaching Associate position, candidates should meet the following qualifications and skills criteria:

Essential Qualifications:

A relevant postgraduate qualification (e.g., MSc, PhD, or equivalent) in psychology or a closely related discipline.
Experience in teaching, preferably at the undergraduate or postgraduate level in psychology.
A strong academic background in psychology, with an ability to deliver quality teaching.
Demonstrated commitment to teaching and learning, as well as an interest in student development.
Strong communication skills and the ability to engage students in an interactive and stimulating learning environment.

Desirable Qualifications:

Expertise in health and wellbeing or related areas of psychology.
Experience in using online learning platforms and blended learning environments.
Familiarity with research methods in psychology and the ability to integrate research findings into teaching.

Successful candidates will be expected to demonstrate their capability to contribute effectively to the School of Psychology’s teaching, research, and professional development activities.

Benefits of the Position

Aston University values its employees and offers a range of benefits to ensure work-life balance, personal growth, and job satisfaction. Some of the key benefits for this Teaching Associate position include:

1. Competitive Salary and Financial Rewards

£38,249 to £42,882 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications.
Opportunities for salary progression based on performance and career development.

2. Excellent Professional Development Opportunities

Aston University offers a comprehensive range of training and development programs.
Support for attending conferences, workshops, and professional learning events in the UK and abroad.

3. Generous Annual Leave Scheme

30 days of annual leave, plus an additional 13 days of bank holidays and university closure days.

4. Work-Life Balance

Aston University’s commitment to flexible working means you can discuss tailored working arrangements with your line manager to suit your needs.

5. Family-Friendly Policies

Aston University supports work-life balance with a range of family-friendly policies, including parental leave, childcare support, and flexible working hours.

6. On-Campus Facilities

On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership.
Access to health and wellbeing services, including counseling and support.

7. Discounted Retail and Activity Deals

Exclusive staff discounts for local retailers and activities within Birmingham city centre.

These benefits, combined with a supportive, inclusive, and collegial work environment, make Aston University a great place to develop your career and work in a dynamic academic setting.

The School of Psychology: A Hub for Innovation and Research

Aston University’s School of Psychology is known for its strong reputation in teaching and research, with particular strengths in health psychology, clinical psychology, and well-being studies. The school is home to a team of highly qualified and experienced psychologists who work collaboratively across disciplines.

Aston University takes pride in its commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion within the academic community. The university is a Bronze Athena SWAN Award holder, showcasing its dedication to improving gender equality in academia. The School of Psychology is an active participant in this vision, ensuring equal opportunities for all students and staff.

Aston University’s Campus and Location

Located in Birmingham, one of the UK’s most vibrant and diverse cities, Aston University offers the perfect environment for both academic and personal growth. Birmingham is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and excellent transport links. As an employee of Aston University, you will have access to:

Excellent transport links within Birmingham and the surrounding areas.
A thriving city center, with a wide range of cultural, dining, and entertainment options.
A strong academic and research community offering numerous opportunities for collaboration and networking.

How to Apply for the Teaching Associate Role

If you are passionate about psychology, education, and contributing to the advancement of knowledge, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity at Aston University. Here’s how you can submit your application:

Visit the official Aston University recruitment page and navigate to the Teaching Associate position (reference 0081-25).
Complete the online application form, providing your academic history, relevant experience, and a personal statement outlining your teaching philosophy.
Attach your CV with references to support your application.
Submit the application by 23:59 BST on Monday 09 June 2025.

Apply Here

For an informal discussion about the role, applicants are encouraged to contact Professor Richard Tunney at r.tunney@aston.ac.uk.

Interview and Selection Process

The interview date for this role is set for Wednesday 25 June 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview, which may include a teaching demonstration or presentation as part of the selection process. Applicants will be assessed based on their qualifications, experience, and ability to contribute to the teaching and research activities of the School of Psychology.

Equal Opportunities and Inclusivity

Aston University is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and strive to create an inclusive and diverse workplace. We particularly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups in higher education, including people with disabilities and individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds.

Final Thoughts

This is a fantastic opportunity for early-career academics looking to make a significant impact in the field of psychology. Aston University’s Teaching Associate position not only offers the chance to teach and contribute to cutting-edge research but also provides a supportive environment for professional development and personal growth. With a competitive salary, generous benefits, and a commitment to inclusivity, Aston University is an ideal place to start or further your academic career in psychology.

For more information and to apply for the role, please visit Aston University’s official recruitment page. We look forward to receiving your application!