Work with Us

Find out about current vacancies, how to apply, and what it's like to work with us here in the Department of Philosophy.

Welcome from the Head of Department

Rosanna Keefe stood outside HRI building

"Thank you for your interest in Philosophy at the University of Sheffield.

We're currently seeking to appoint a Full Professor on an open-ended contract, to start in September 2024 or at a later date by arrangement. The vacancy has arisen due to the retirement of Bob Stern and we are expecting to make a strong appointment in an area that enables us to build on our strengths and expand into new related areas. We are currently also in the process of appointing two new lectureships in History of Philosophy and Political Philosophy.

The Philosophy Department in Sheffield has, for a long time, been widely regarded both as one of the best Philosophy Departments in the UK and as a particularly friendly department. Our research and teaching covers a wide range of areas and approaches and we are proud of our programmes, including strong undergraduate degrees and both our Philosophy and our interdisciplinary Political Theory and Cognitive Studies MAs. We have a lively community of PhD students and post-doctoral fellows, who also contribute to the life of the department, including seminars, workshops, conferences and reading groups.

I'm very happy to answer questions and to have informal discussions about the position or the department, so please do feel free to contact me on r.keefe@sheffield.ac.uk."

Professor Rosanna Keefe,

Professor of Philosophy

Head of Department

About the Department

The research in our department covers a wide variety of topics and schools of thought, including cognitive science, environmental philosophy, epistemology, metaphysics, moral psychology, political philosophy and philosophy of religion.

We're also home to three research centres: the Hang Seng Centre for Cognitive Studies, the Centre for Engaged Philosophy, and the Centre for the History of Philosophy. These three centres, alongside many other research projects, form the backbone of our world-leading research, 86 percent of which was rated in the highest two categories in the REF 2021.

We strive for an inclusive and just department, where staff and students are all valued. There are a number of department-based, and university-wide initiatives to support equality, diversity and inclusion. This includes a departmental committee, with representatives from academic, professional, postgraduate and undergraduate students working together. Our work aims to raise awareness, advance inclusion, address issues and share good practice.

Our departmental activities are aligned with the University's EDI strategy. You can find out more by visiting our Inclusion at Sheffield pages.

An image of students walking towards the Students' Union

In terms of teaching, we offer undergraduate courses in Philosophy and Philosophy, Religion and Ethics, contribute to a Politics, Philosophy and Economics programme and run a large range of dual honours programmes across multiple Faculties, from Politics (Faculty of Social Sciences) to Physics (Faculty of Science).We also offer three programmes at masters level, covering Philosophy, Cognitive Studies and Political Theory.

Rewards and Benefits

Highly competitive pay, pension, reward and recognition opportunities linked to performance.

An extraordinary health and wellbeing offer that promotes happiness and wellbeing amongst our staff through a broad range of inclusive activities.

A comprehensive selection of benefits and offers to suit your lifestyle needs under the umbrella of The Deal.

Access to our extensive development and training opportunities.

Award winning equality and diversity action which enhances working life for all within the Institution.