Senior Research Fellow (MA Architecture), Riyadh University of the Arts Partnership

The Royal College of Art is seeking an exceptional researcher to help shape the intellectual foundations of a new internationally leading MA programme, while undertaking cutting-edge research into emerging urban design practices, professional competencies, governance models, pedagogical innovation and regional urban transformation.

Working within an international academic partnership, you will play a central role in generating new knowledge that informs curriculum development, challenge-based learning, research-led teaching and practice-led research. You will collaborate with senior academics, external partners and stakeholders, contributing both strategic insight and rigorous research to a project of significant international ambition.

About the Role

In this fixed-term role, you will undertake original research exploring contemporary urban design practice, education models, professional standards and regional development. Using a range of qualitative and analytical methods, you will collect, analyse and synthesise evidence to help shape programme development and inform a wider research agenda.

The role requires an individual who can operate confidently across research, pedagogy, curriculum development, stakeholder engagement and strategic planning. You will contribute to high-quality research outputs, funding applications, partnership development and public dissemination activities, while helping to build the profile and impact of the project internationally.

About You

You will hold a PhD in Urban Design, Architecture, Planning, Urban Studies or a closely related discipline and have a strong track record of postdoctoral research achievement.

You will bring:

- Expertise in urban design, architecture, planning, urban studies or a related field.
- Experience of designing and delivering high-quality research projects.
- A strong publication record with evidence of producing internationally recognised research outputs.
- Excellent analytical, organisational and project management skills.
- Experience of working collaboratively across academic, industry or external partnerships.
- A creative, proactive and intellectually ambitious approach to research and programme development.

Why Join Us?

This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of applied urban research and pedagogical innovation within one of the world's leading art and design institutions. You will contribute to a strategically important international initiative with the potential to influence urban design education, professional practice and research on a global scale.

The successful candidate will join an ambitious and collaborative environment, working alongside internationally recognised academics, industry partners and stakeholders to shape the next generation of urban design education and research.