The Distinguished Chair contributes to the intellectual life of the University through seminars, public lectures and curriculum development. The Distinguished Chair is particularly appealing if you are seeking to develop long-term research links with Birmingham academics. The award is open to U.S. academics from a broad range of disciplinary backgrounds with the capacity to steer and contribute to research and teaching activities.  

Chairs will be made honorary fellows of the University’s Institute of Advanced Studies (IAS) and are invited to contribute to IAS’ aim to promote cross-disciplinary research by bringing together expertise from across the University to address major cross-cutting themes that are important, relevant and timely.  

Focusing on quality education and research, our strong standing in global rankings is based on our graduate prospects, student experience, as well as our publications. Our ambition means we always strive to do more. By appointing and developing outstanding academic colleagues in every area. By investing in large new research programmes. By building major national and international research partnerships. 

A platform for significant, pioneering research. 11 Nobel Prize winners. Birmingham is a hub for innovation, delivery and academic rigour. We focus on global issues, with a collaborative, cross-disciplinary culture. One that produces practical answers to some of the world’s greatest challenges. 

Its extensive academic portfolio offers over 600 taught postgraduate programmes and a wealth of research opportunities.   

The University offers a unique experience within a truly international community. The UK’s second city, Birmingham is a vibrant and inspiring place to live, with a rich culture and diverse community. With historic buildings, modern facilities and green surroundings, our Edgbaston campus is a place to be inspired. 

The University of Birmingham has a long tradition of forging purposeful, innovative and collaborative research connections, particularly with the United States. Extensive transatlantic faculty-to-faculty links with the US reflects our ambition to work collaboratively in pursuit of innovative, grounded and enduring solutions to some of the world’s biggest issues.