Formally established in June 2022, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) (HKUST(GZ)) is a cooperatively-run higher education institution between the Chinese mainland and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. College of Education Sciences (CES) provides education and academic support for first- and second-year undergraduates and conducts educational research.
CES’s Pillar of Language Education (PLE) implements university language policy through credit and non-credit courses, events and activities, fostering a multilingual, multicultural community for faculty, staff and students. PLE invites applications for Head from exceptional candidates passionate about language education in an English-medium science and technology university in mainland China.
Qualification of Candidates
The Head of PLE will receive support from the University to ensure the success of students in the English medium of instruction (EMI) environment, the development of communication skills in Chinese for mainland students, access to Chinese language training for international staff and students, and the provision of other languages as necessary in the future. Reporting to the Dean of CES, the Head of PLE should be a visionary and open-minded language education practitioner or academic who can provide leadership and manage the PLE's diverse functions.
The successful candidate is expected to possess some or all of the following skills and experience:
- Strong academic background in language education or related fields;
- Experience in leading and managing academic departments;
- Excellent interpersonal skills to manage the team, build consensus, and act as advocate to relevant stakeholders;
- Knowledge and understanding of the language policy and goals of the University;
- A deep understanding of the interdisciplinary academic organization and pedagogical features of HKUST(GZ);
- Familiarity with the context of English medium of instruction (EMI) science and technology-focused institutions in Chinese mainland;
- Ability to develop and implement language-related credit and non-credit bearing courses, events, and activities;
- Experience in conducting research in the fields of language education or related areas;
- The ability to develop and lead innovative teaching practices in the context of interdisciplinary integration;
- The ability to lead a team of faculty to conduct pedagogical research in language teaching and learning;
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with faculty, staff, and students from diverse backgrounds;
- Familiarity with the characteristics of language learning and learning development of Chinese university students;
- Commitment to promoting a multi-lingual and multi-cultural community of learning and practice among faculty, staff, and students.
Remuneration and Conditions of Service
Salary is highly competitive of international standard and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Fringe benefits include annual leave, medical insurance and housing will be provided where applicable. The initial appointment will be made on a fixed term contract of up to three years, and re-appointment thereafter will be subject to performance and mutual agreement.
Application Procedure
Applications should be submitted via the HKUST(GZ) Faculty Recruitment System by clicking the 'Apply' button. You should first sign up to create your personal account. Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. We thank applicants for their interest. Please be advised that only shortlisted candidates will be notified of the result of their application.
For questions regarding the recruitment system or general inquiries, please reach us at facultyhire@hkust-gz.edu.cn. For College/PLE specific questions, please address to emmamtli@hkust-gz.edu.cn with subject title of “Application to Head of PLE”.

