Lecturer in Veterinary Preclinical Sciences and Clinical Skills

Role overview and University context:
The University of Al Dhaid is strategically positioned within the Emirate of Sharjah renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and knowledge-driven development. Sharjah, often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of the UAE," is home to a thriving ecosystem of universities, research institutions, and cultural centers, fostering an environment that promotes intellectual growth and interdisciplinary collaboration. The University of Al Dhaid, in collaboration with the University of Liverpool, established its College of Veterinary Medicine, a pioneering initiative designed to advance veterinary education and research in the region. This strategic partnership integrates the University of Liverpool’s internationally renowned veterinary curriculum with Al Dhaid’s state-of-the-art facilities, including extensive clinical, laboratory, and field-based resources, to deliver a comprehensive Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program. The inaugural cohort is set to commence in September 2025, with the program fully accredited by the UAE Commission for Academic Accreditation under the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. This initiative reflects a commitment to academic excellence, innovative pedagogy, and research-driven veterinary practice, equipping graduates with the expertise necessary to address contemporary challenges in animal health and welfare. The College of Veterinary Medicine invites distinguished scholars and experienced educators to join its dynamic faculty team and contribute to shaping the future of veterinary education and the next generation of veterinary professionals. Reporting to the Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, the Lecturer in Veterinary Preclinical Sciences and Clinical Skills will play a central role in curriculum development and delivery, adapting the curriculum of our partner, the School of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool, and forging connections across the two universities and ensuring the quality and efficacy of the curriculum of the new DVM program. Beyond teaching, faculty members are expected to engage in research and scholarly activities, also contribute to the administrative functions of the College, supporting its strategic initiatives and academic development.

Key responsibilities and duties:
The new DVM program will be based on the existing five-year BVSc program at the University of Liverpool (UOL), School of Veterinary Science (SVS) with adaptations to address local context.

Teaching and Clinical Education: Teaching responsibilities will be diverse focusing on the fundamental pre-clinical disciplines of veterinary medicine including anatomy, physiology, animal husbandry and welfare, alongside the development of animal handling and clinical skills stations and assessments.
• Develop and deliver didactic lectures, seminars, practical sessions, and problem-based learning sessions for undergraduate veterinary students.
• Supervise and instruct students in clinical rotations, laboratory sessions, and fieldwork, providing timely feedback and opportunities for reflection to guide student learning.
• Develop and deliver appropriate, authentic and meaningful assessments of student performance through examinations, coursework, and practical assessments to support student learning and provide evidence of achievement of intended learning outcomes and acquisition of competencies.
• Contribute to curriculum development and continuous improvement of the veterinary education program, including making effective use of outcome measures to guide curriculum development.
• Implement innovative teaching methods, including digital learning tools and case-based learning approaches, to ensure that the DVM has effective vertical integration.
• Engage with external stakeholders, including agricultural enterprises, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, research centers, and government agencies to ensure the veterinary education program has industry relevance and incorporates appropriate experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities.
• Uphold and ensure compliance with globally recognized accreditation standards in veterinary practice and professional ethics.
• Mentor and advise students on academic and career matters.
Research and Scholarly Activities:
• Conduct high-quality research relevant to the mission of the College of Veterinary Medicine.
• Secure research funding through grants and industry partnerships.
• Publish findings in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and present at national/international conferences.
• Supervise undergraduate research projects.
• Collaborate with faculty and external institutions on interdisciplinary research initiatives.
• Ongoing engagement in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities to maintain and enhance professional skills and knowledge.
Institutional and Administrative Duties:
• Participate in faculty meetings, academic committees, and departmental initiatives.
• Engage in student recruitment, admissions, and outreach activities.
• Contribute to accreditation and quality assurance processes.
• Foster industry partnerships and community engagement efforts.
In addition to the above, all University of Al Dhaid staff are required to:
• Adhere to all University policies and procedures.
• Respect confidentiality: all confidential information should be kept in confidence and not released to unauthorised persons.
• Participate in the University’s Professional Development Review scheme and take a proactive approach to own professional development.
• Demonstrate customer service excellence in dealing with all stakeholders.
• Embody and uphold the University’s Vision and Values.

Experience:

Essential:
• Experience of working in an academic role in a veterinary degree granting higher education institution.
• Experience of working in veterinary practice setting.
Desirable:
• Proven experience in delivering high-quality instruction across diverse class sizes, with a strong record of pedagogical effectiveness, student engagement, and excellent teaching evaluations.
• Some research experience, preferably with publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Education, qualifications and training:

Essential:
• A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) and a PhD in Veterinary Medicine or related field from a recognized institution and recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the UAE.
• A Master’s degree (MSc or MPhil) in a relevant veterinary field, or a relevant post graduate clinical qualification (or significant clinical experience).
• Minimum of three years of Significant teaching experience in higher education, or training of veterinary students or graduates in an experiential practice setting.
• Proven ability to deliver high-quality instruction and mentorship, fostering academic excellence and professional development among students.
Desirable:
• Teaching qualification.
• Professional Certification.

Skills, general and specialist Knowledge:

Essential:
• Strong knowledge and teaching experience of the pre-clinical veterinary sciences and an ability to incorporate their clinical applications in a vertically integrated curriculum.
• Ability to engage in interdisciplinary research collaborations.
• Strong communication skills essential for effective engagement in academic and professional settings.
Desirable:
• Capability to proactively engage in and oversee tasks beyond primary responsibilities, contributing to broader institutional and professional objectives.
• Proficiency in modern educational technology and digital learning tools.

Personal attributes:

Essential:
• Outstanding interpersonal skills, and an ability to inspire students.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Commitment to professional development.
• Ability to think and act strategically.
• Displays a positive, enthusiastic, and self-motivated mindset.
• Ability to excel in demanding situations, effectively managing time-sensitive tasks while upholding academic and professional standards.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and accountability in decision-making within one’s area of expertise.
• Possesses a highly adaptable and flexible approach to all professional responsibilities.
• Proven ability to effectively prioritize tasks and manage administrative responsibilities, ensuring efficiency in workload management and academic commitments.

Why Work Here:
The University of Al Dhaid provides a unique opportunity to join a dynamic, forward-thinking institution dedicated to excellence in education, research, and professional development. Located in a culturally rich and strategically positioned region, it offers state-of-the-art facilities, competitive benefits, and a supportive academic community. Faculty enjoy professional growth opportunities and a collaborative environment, making it an ideal place to advance careers and contribute meaningfully to veterinary education and research. Employment Terms & Conditions::

• Salary: Competitive, based on qualifications and experience.
• Contract Type: Full-time (as per university policy).
• Benefits: Health insurance.
• Workload: Teaching, research, and clinical service responsibilities as determined by the department.

Application process:

Candidates should submit:
• A cover letter outlining their teaching philosophy and research interests.
• A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) which includes degrees obtained and professional certifications, teaching experience, list of publications and contact details of at least three referees.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the positions are filled. Candidates who do not fulfill the above criteria will not be considered. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.