Academic careers are diverse, with the ability to conduct research, deliver teaching, and increasingly support innovation and knowledge exchange. In this first instalment of the insight into Academia series, join us for an introduction to the variety of options available and see that that there is no ‘one route’ to follow in an academic career.

Intended for students considering embarking on an academic career, this session will outline the diverse roles and pathways within academic careers within a range of higher education and research institutions.

We will cover:

· The core academic functions: Research, Teaching and Knowledge exchange/Impact and innovation

· The range of role types that currently exist with a focus on the UK landscape and the diversity of institutions that exist.

· Skills and competencies, entry points and early career stages

· Mobility and International considerations

We will also share tools resources and next steps to advance your career thinking in this area.

This series accompanies the Academia and Higher Education sector briefing available on the Careers Service website.

Other sessions in the series:

· Insight into Academia: Positioning for Academic Progression (6-Nov-25)

· Insight into Academia: Myths and Realities of Academic Careers Panel Event (13-Nov-25)

· Insight into Academia: Academic Application Materials (17-Nov-25)