Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching, School of Mathematics and Physics

ABOUT XJTLU

In 2006 Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) was created by the University of Liverpool and Xi’an Jiaotong University – a top ten university in China. Offering a unique international education experience, XJTLU brings together excellent research practice and expertise from both institutions and gives students the skills and knowledge they need to secure careers in a global marketplace. XJTLU now has over 25,000 enrolled students in both Suzhou and Liverpool in the UK, with plans to grow to about 28,000 students by 2025. There are currently about 2,000 staff, among which about 1,000 academic staff, with an almost even split between citizens of the People’s Republic of China and international passport holders. XJTLU offers our undergraduates and postgraduates over 100 programmes with a diverse spectrum of courses.

XJTLU is entering a new and exciting phase of its development as part of its strategic priorities for the next ten years. Adopting a new higher education model based on the concept of Syntegrative Education (SE), XJTLU is currently opening a new Entrepreneurial Education site in Taicang, part of wider Suzhou, where the Entrepreneur College (Taicang) is located. The Taicang site will be a pioneer of, and educational model for, the future campus in addressing challenges arising from the 4th Industrial Revolution. Other new initiatives include new working partnerships with Xi’an Jiaotong University, the continued development of the four new Academies, and exploration of further potential locations to develop the SE model.

With a focus on innovative learning and teaching, and research, XJTLU draws on the strengths of its parent universities, and plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to China for UK and other institutional partners. At same time, XJTLU is exploring future education by blending the educational theory, best practice and culture from west and east.

For detailed information about the university, please visit www.xjtlu.edu.cn.

ABOUT SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS AND PHYSICS

The School of Mathematics and Physics is a research-driven academic unit comprising over 100 faculty members and a diverse student body with more than 2,500 undergraduate students in mathematics, 250+ master’s students, and 70+ Ph.D. students. The School is organized into five departments: Foundational Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Pure Mathematics, Physics, and Financial and Actuarial Mathematics. It currently offers a broad range of degree programs, including four undergraduate programs, four master’s programs, and one Ph.D. program.

Our mission is to advance world-class research and develop innovative solutions to complex, real-world challenges. The School maintains a strong commitment to interdisciplinary research and active collaboration with industry. Research activities span a wide range of areas in pure and applied mathematics, probability and statistics, and theoretical physics, with practical applications across engineering, business, and health sectors.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Associate Dean for Learning and Teaching (ADLT) is a key member of the senior management team in the School of Mathematics and Physics, working alongside the Dean, Associate Dean for Research, and five department heads. Together, they oversee executive functions such as policy development, strategic planning, and, in collaboration with administrative staff, the management and coordination of school operations.

The Associate Dean, Learning and Teaching is responsible and accountable for providing high quality educational leadership within a School, and for the development, implementation and review of educational initiatives that are aligned with the School’s and University’s strategic priorities in learning and teaching and the student experience. The Associate Dean, Learning and Teaching manages school-based Learning and Teaching initiatives, ensuring the quality and continuous improvement of courses and the development of a school environment that promotes outstanding learning outcomes for students.

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience in both teaching and academic management within the UK higher education system, as well as a deep commitment to innovative and high-quality education.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strategic Leadership in Learning and Teaching
  • Develop and implement a strategic vision for learning and teaching that aligns with the mission of an international joint venture university, emphasizing excellence, innovation, and alignment with UK educational standards.
  • Design and oversee programs to enhance teaching quality, support active learning, and foster student engagement in mathematics and physics.
  • Identify and address key priorities in curriculum development, assessment, and pedagogy, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of an international student body.
• Curriculum Development and Enhancement
  • Lead curriculum planning and development in line with best practices from the UK higher education system, incorporating current trends in mathematics and physics education.
  • Oversee the implementation of teaching and assessment practices that are responsive to diverse learning needs and culturally inclusive.
  • Ensure that programs are up-to-date, reflective of global standards, and provide students with the knowledge and skills needed for both academic and professional success.
• Faculty Development and Teaching Support
  • Support and mentor faculty in effective teaching practices, curriculum design, and assessment methods, promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Develop and manage professional development programs to enhance faculty’s teaching skills, particularly in active learning, online teaching, and student-centered approaches.
  • Encourage collaboration and the sharing of best practices among faculty to foster innovation in teaching and learning.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance
  • Ensure compliance with the academic standards and policies of both Chinese and UK education Systems, aligning with accreditation requirements and regulatory guidelines.
  • Oversee quality assurance processes, including course evaluations, peer reviews, and teaching effectiveness assessments, to maintain high standards across programs.
  • Regularly assess and report on the effectiveness of learning and teaching initiatives, using data to inform decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Student Experience and Support
  • Champion initiatives that enhance the overall student experience, with a focus on academic support, engagement, and inclusivity.
  • Work with academic and support staff to address student needs, monitor academic performance, and improve retention and success rates.
  • Act as a bridge between students and faculty, ensuring that students’ voices are heard in decision-making processes related to teaching and learning.
• Cross-Cultural and International Collaboration
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive learning environment that embraces the diverse cultural backgrounds of students and staff.
  • Promote international perspectives in teaching content and methods, encouraging cross-cultural understanding and exchange.
  • Represent the school’s learning and teaching mission in engagements with partner universities and at national and international conferences.

QUALIFICATION

• Ph.D. in Mathematics, Physics, or a related field.
• Extensive teaching experience in higher education, with a preference for candidates with a background in the UK education system.
• Proven experience in academic management or leadership roles related to teaching and learning, including curriculum development and faculty support.
• Strong understanding of UK higher education standards and quality assurance processes.
• Demonstrated ability to lead initiatives that improve teaching quality, student engagement, and learning outcomes.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with students, faculty, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Innovative and strategic thinker with a passion for advancing teaching and learning.
• Collaborative leader committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive academic environment.
• Culturally aware and adaptable, with a deep appreciation for the international joint venture context.

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

• Clear career development path with annual review.
• Professional development trainings are provided.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Salary: Competitive salary in the market

Benefits:

• Allowance: XJTLU provides various month/annual/one-off allowances such as:
  • Housing allowance
  • Travel allowance
  • Kids’ education allowance
  • Relocation allowance
  • Etc.
• Commercial insurance: international insurance plans customized for XJTLU staff and family members. (Details refer to the University Policy)
• Paid holidays:
  • Statutory Holidays (11 days)
  • Annual Leave (36 days)
  • Family Matters Leave
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Marriage Leave
  • Paternity Leave
  • Parental leave
  • Etc.
• Working visa and residence permit in China: XJTLU sponsors working visa and residence permit in China for the staff.

RESEARCH FUNDING SUPPORT

The university provides every new faculty member with a Research Development Fund to encourage them to initiate research projects, and a Research Engagement Fund to support their continuous research activities.

The university will also support all faculty members to apply for national, provincial, and city level programs. These programs aim to support excellent scientists, both Chinese and non-Chinese citizens, to work and carry out research in China.

Some of the programs are listed in the table below. Successful applications are based on the applicant’s educational background, academic/research field, research achievements, working experience, etc. The university will provide full support on the applications.

• Talent/Research Program
• Outstanding Youth Science Foundation Project (Overseas) – RMB 1-3 Million
• Innovation Leading Talent – up to RMB 2 Million
• Outstanding Leading Talent of International Discipline – 50% of Annual Package
• Young Leading Talent of International Discipline – 50% of Annual Package

CITIZENSHIP AND VISA REGULATIONS

Employment at Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University is regulated by Chinese Labour Laws, and must comply with the regulations of the provincial government. These regulations stipulate who is eligible for legal employment with regard to obtaining work permits and visas. Please be advised candidates over 65 may be not eligible for a work visa in the P.R. China.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your application through our university website. Applications must be submitted in a single pdf file that includes 3 parts in the order of:

• A cover letter
• A current CV, including date of birth, country of citizenship, and highest degree level
• Contact Details for Three Academic References

For specific enquiries relating to the position, please email the dean of the School, Prof. Jintai Ding, at [email protected]. Informal enquiries may be addressed to HR at [email protected].