Join us in transforming English Language Assessment
At Oxford University Press (OUP), we are not just building an assessment business - we are reshaping the future of English language testing. Backed by one of the most respected global names in education and English language teaching, we are on an ambitious journey to develop and grow our assessment business. Our aim is to become a global leader in the field, delivering innovative, high-quality tests that set new standards in the industry.
Why this matters
The world of English language assessment is changing. Digital transformation, AI-driven solutions, and evolving learner needs are redefining how tests are designed, delivered, and recognised. We believe that this has created the opportunity for OUP to lead, innovate, and shape the next generation of English language testing at scale.
Why join now?
We are assembling a team of experts in assessment, product, technology, operations, research, and commercial growth to take this business to the next level. This is your chance to:
make a real impact – you won’t be joining a business that’s maintaining the status quo. You’ll be shaping it. Your expertise will directly influence strategy, innovation, and execution.
lead transformation – we are creating something bold and ambitious, combining the strength of OUP’s legacy with the agility of a high-growth business.
innovate at the forefront of assessment – work with cutting-edge AI, digital testing, and next-generation assessment models to enhance how people learn and prove their English proficiency.
As a department of the University of Oxford, we are guided in everything we do by our mission; we re-invest in our publishing and our assessment to have a positive impact on our international community of English language learners.
About the Role
Oxford University Press is seeking a world-class Research Director to lead the research function within our rapidly growing English language assessment business. This is a pivotal role in shaping the future of English language testing at OUP, ensuring our assessments remain at the forefront of validity, reliability, and innovation.
We are looking for a highly respected expert in language assessment, with a PhD in Language Testing, a strong research publication record, and a proven track record of developing and delivering effective and impactful research strategies, engaging with senior stakeholders (e.g. ministries) at the highest levels, and delivering plenaries at international conferences. The successful candidate will be an authoritative voice in the field, driving research excellence and enhancing the credibility of our assessments globally.
This is a rare opportunity to take on a strategic leadership role, supporting and building research capabilities within a growing organisation, and influencing how English proficiency is assessed worldwide.
We operate a hybrid working policy that requires a minimum of 2 days per week in the Oxford office.
About You
Essential:
An academic background in Language Testing, Applied Linguistics, or a closely related field.
Extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals and academic books.
Proven track record of delivering plenary/keynote talks at international conferences
Experience leading and mentoring a research team in a university, testing organisation, or similar setting.
Strong understanding of psychometrics, test validation, and AI-driven assessment methodologies.
Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, well-connected with the research community and experience working with regulatory bodies, universities, and policymakers.
Desirable:
Current professorial level role at a university, demonstrating academic leadership and credibility.
Experience working with AI-based assessment tools, automated scoring, or adaptive testing.
Experience securing funding or research grants to support large-scale assessment projects.
Benefits
We care about work/life balance here at OUP. With this in mind we offer 25 days’ holiday that rises with service, plus bank holidays and Christmas closure (3-days) and a 35-hour working week. We are open to discussing flexibility in respect to working patterns, dependent on role. We also have a great variety of active employee networks and societies.
We help make your money go further by contributing to your pension up to 12%, offering loans and savings schemes through our partnership with Salary Finance, in addition to travel to work schemes and access to a wide range of local discounts.
This role comes with the added benefit of private medical insurance, a car/allowance, and a discretionary annual management bonus.
Please see our Rewards and Recognition page for more information.
We are committed to supporting diversity in our workforce, and ensuring an inclusive environment where all individuals can thrive. We seek to employ a workforce representative of the markets that we serve and encourage applications from all.
