Professor in International Relations, Regional Politics and Security (Sheikh Nasser al-Muhammad al-Sabah Chair)

Durham University’s School of Government and International Affairs (SGIA) invites applications for the prestigious Sheikh Nasser al-Muhammad al-Sabah Chair in International Relations, Regional Politics, and Security. This permanent faculty position offers an opportunity to shape the future of a leading research programme focused on the Gulf region, state security, and international conflict dynamics. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership, expand academic and policy collaborations—particularly with Kuwait and GCC states—and advance cutting-edge research on security threats, crisis decision-making, and geopolitical interactions. Responsibilities include mentoring doctoral students, securing external funding, and delivering world-class teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The role is ideal for an established scholar with a distinguished track record in international security studies and a commitment to fostering interdisciplinary excellence.

• Provide intellectual and strategic leadership for the Sheikh Nasser al-Muhammad al-Sabah Programme, shaping its research agenda and international profile.
• Lead and expand academic, policy, and institutional collaborations with Kuwait and GCC member states, fostering research partnerships and conferences.
• Secure external research funding to sustain and grow the Programme’s research activities and international recognition.
• Attract, supervise, and mentor outstanding PhD students in international relations, regional politics, and security studies.
• Deliver research-led teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, ensuring high academic standards and student engagement.
• Engage with policymakers, practitioners, and non-academic communities to enhance research impact and relevance.
• Strengthen Durham University’s research community in international relations, security, and Middle East politics through interdisciplinary connections.
• Develop new research initiatives and publications that contribute to a deeper understanding of evolving international and regional security dynamics.