University of Cambridge
Professorship of Mechanical Engineering (1997)

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
The Board of Electors to the Professorship of Mechanical Engineering (1997) invite applications for this Professorship to take up appointment on 1 October 2027 or as soon as possible thereafter.
About the Role
The Department of Engineering is one of the few truly integrated engineering departments in the world. It is also the largest department in the University of Cambridge, with this breadth and scale bringing about unique advantages. The research portfolio develops pinnacles of world-class excellence, which adapt and combine to address a vast array of engineering challenges. Cambridge is consistently ranked as a world leader in Mechanical Engineering.
Requirements
Candidates will have an outstanding research record of international stature in mechanical engineering. They will provide vision, leadership, experience, and enthusiasm to the Engineering Department's Mechanics, Materials and Design Division to maintain and develop a leading research presence. Candidates will hold a PhD or equivalent postgraduate qualification.
The following potential research areas are highlighted: experimental mechanics, robotics, energy materials, medical devices, dynamics and vibrations and modelling and simulation, although applicants in other research areas within the broad field of mechanical engineering with an emphasis on solids are also welcomed.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Duties
Standard professorial duties include teaching and research, examining, supervision and administration. The Professor will be based in Cambridge. A competitive salary will be offered.
Application Process
The University of Cambridge will be advised and supported in this appointment process by their executive search partner Perrett Laver.
For further details, including the job description, person specification, and information on how to apply, please contact Callum Conway at Perrett Laver at Callum.Conway@perrettlaver.com quoting the reference number 8564.
Application Requirements
Applications Should Consist Of
- a covering letter explaining how you meet the criteria in the Person Specification (see Further Particulars)
- a curriculum vitae (CV);
- a full publications list;
- a statement of no more than three pages in length covering professional, teaching and research experience and your future research plans;
- details of three referees.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
The closing date for applications is 09.00am (BST) on Friday 16th October 2026. For an informal and confidential discussion about this position, please contact Callum Conway.
The Board of Electors will meet soon after the closing date to produce a short list of candidates. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Department to take part in informal meetings with staff, give a short seminar/lecture and attend a formal interview. This process is expected to conclude in early 2027.
Please quote reference NM51179 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and Inclusion
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
Eligibility
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London