University of Exeter – College of Humanities

We are delighted to have received a significant philanthropic donation from the A. G. Leventis Foundation to create the A. G. Leventis Chair in Ancient Greek Scientific and Technological Thought.

This endowed position is unique within the UK and forms part of the Department of Classics and Ancient History in the College of Humanities. The Department is a leading international centre for the study of all aspects of the ancient world and its reception and legacy, with a strong tradition of scholarship in ancient medicine and the scientific imagination. There is a growing recognition of the need for a major expansion of research in this field, both to enhance our understanding of ancient Greek culture itself and to help us address some of the global challenges we face today.

The role

The A. G. Leventis Chair in Ancient Greek Scientific and Technological Thought will open an exciting new chapter for the Department of Classics and Ancient History. The commencement of this position in 2022 marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the partnership between the A. G. Leventis Foundation and the University of Exeter and offers a unique opportunity to shape a dynamic programme of scholarship and public engagement. The inaugural A. G. Leventis Chair will be a leading light in research at an international level. They will stand at the forefront of scholarship in this field and will engage in ground-breaking teaching, research and outreach activities.

The Department of Classics and Ancient History has already established a strong reputation in the field, including boasting a number of early- and mid-career scholars working on ancient science and technology. This has recently been enhanced through the establishment of the Centre for Knowledge in Culture in Antiquity and Beyond. The A. G. Leventis Chair will provide significant leadership for this centre of excellence, firmly establishing the Department’s status as a world-leader in this growing subject. They will engage in top-quality research on any topic which falls within the broad purview of the job title. While we are seeking an established expert, we would not expect any candidate to cover all potential areas of interest within this role.

As well as disseminating the outcomes of their research through the traditional academic channels of books, journal articles and conference papers, the Professor will carry out sustained public engagement. This reflects the A. G. Leventis Foundation’s ambition to disseminate Greek cultural heritage in a novel and engaging manner and will contribute to transforming the role of the discipline of Classics within contemporary society. They will also be expected to apply for major research grants and secure significant external funding, as well as attracting doctoral students and postgraduate researchers to work under their supervision.

The Professor will join around 20 academic colleagues in the Department of Classics and Ancient History and will play a full role in the life of the Department and its relationship with the College of Humanities and the wider University. The Department prides itself on its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere and its sense of community which unites undergraduates, postgraduates and academics. Alongside appropriate administrative activities, the Professor will teach on the undergraduate and MA degree programmes. Research-led teaching is at the heart of the curriculum and all staff are encouraged to create modules which reflect their specific areas of interest and expertise.

About you

We are seeking a world-renowned academic to become the inaugural holder of the Chair and lead the further development of this field at Exeter. The successful applicant will have an outstanding record of innovative research and publications, as well as the capacity to attract major research funding, to lead and inspire colleagues, postdoctoral researchers and graduate students, to deliver high quality teaching at all levels and to communicate the importance of ancient science and technology to a broad and diverse audience.

For further information about the role and how to apply, please visit https://www.perrettlaver.com/campaigns/exeter-classics-ancient-history.