Tutor (Research) MA Photography

Tutor (Research) in Photography - Maternity Cover at the Royal College of Art

The Royal College of Art (RCA), a globally acclaimed institution at the forefront of art and design, is seeking an accomplished artist-researcher to join their esteemed School of Arts & Humanities. This is a significant opportunity, offered as a 0.8 FTE maternity cover position until March 31, 2027, for the role of Tutor (Research) in Photography.

This role offers a chance to immerse yourself in a dynamic, research-intensive environment, contributing to both the MA Photography programme and the MFA Arts & Humanities. The MA Photography programme itself is a hub of innovation, fostering a cross-disciplinary community of practitioners who are pushing the boundaries of contemporary photographic practice and image-making. They embrace photography in its broadest sense, encompassing not only traditional forms but also publishing, performance, installation, social practice, sound, synthetic media, text, and writing.

The programme's ethos is deeply rooted in process, experimentation, and speculation. It encourages a questioning of what photographic images are and what they can become, challenging conventional material, medium, and genre limitations. Teaching and research here are actively engaged with photography's role in societal and political discourse, intercultural dialogues, and the transformative impact of technology. There's a strong emphasis on considering the image within the context of ecology, ethics, and representation, nurturing practices that are both critically astute and imaginatively bold.

Key Advantages for Potential Candidates:

• World-Class Institution: Join a leading global art and design college, providing unparalleled prestige and networking opportunities.
• Cutting-Edge Programme: Contribute to a forward-thinking photography programme that embraces the expanded field, including emerging technologies like AI.
• Interdisciplinary Environment: Work within a vibrant, collaborative setting that bridges the MA Photography and MFA Arts & Humanities programmes.
• Research-Focused Role: This position emphasizes your active research and professional practice, allowing you to continue developing your artistic career.
• Teaching and Mentorship: Gain valuable experience in teaching, supervision, and pastoral support at postgraduate level, shaping the next generation of artists.
• Focus on Contemporary Issues: Engage with critical themes such as ecology, ethics, decolonial practices, and the politics of representation within your teaching and research.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Fixed-Term Contract: This is a maternity cover position with a defined end date of March 31, 2027. Candidates should consider how this aligns with their long-term career goals.
• 0.8 FTE Commitment: The role requires a significant part-time commitment, meaning you will be dedicating 80% of your professional time to this position.
• Text and Image Expertise: The role specifically seeks an artist-researcher with a focus on the relationship between text and image, and/or socially or ethically engaged visual practices. Demonstrating strength in these areas is crucial.
• Postgraduate Teaching Experience: While not strictly mandatory for all roles, proven ability to deliver high-quality postgraduate teaching is essential.
• Research Excellence: A clear research plan and a track record of research excellence are vital for this position, aligning with the RCA's standards.
• Desirable Skills: While not essential, experience related to care, health, ecology, decolonial practice, AI, or grant funding would be highly advantageous and could significantly enhance your application.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an artist-researcher eager to contribute to a prestigious institution and engage with the evolving landscape of photographic practice. If you are passionate about teaching and exploring the transformative power of images, we encourage you to consider this role as a significant step in your academic and artistic journey.