The British Academy – the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences – is seeking a Publishing Assistant to join our small publishing department and provide key editorial and production support with our publications.

The role

The Publishing Assistant will be responsible for supporting the timely delivery of publications by assisting with the editorial processes for book publications and the Journal of the British Academy.

Your role will involve building excellent working relationships with authors, editors, and key stakeholders and managing time effectively while undertaking day-to-day publishing administration. You will manage proposal submissions, organise peer reviews, and keep publications moving by tracking deadlines and chasing updates where needed. You’ll be in regular contact with academics and colleagues, so being clear, professional, and approachable in your communication is key.

This role would suit someone who is early in their publishing career or looking to move into academic publishing who enjoys working with people and managing processes. A demonstrable interest in the humanities and social sciences is essential. Previous experience in publishing is beneficial but not required.

The ideal candidate will be highly organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively. You will have excellent attention to detail and strong written communication skills, with the ability to engage professionally with a range of stakeholders. You will be comfortable working independently and able to confidently use your initiative to anticipate issues and find solutions.

You will work with three other members of the Publishing team, as well as liaising with colleagues in the Communications Directorate and the Academy’s Publishing and Conferences Committee.

About the Academy

The British Academy is the UK’s national body for the humanities and social sciences, established by Royal Charter in 1902. We mobilise these disciplines to understand the world and shape a brighter future. Today’s complex challenges can only be resolved by deepening our insight into people, culture, and societies. With a Fellowship of around 1,700 leading national and international academics, the Academy invests in researchers and projects across the UK and overseas, engages the public with fresh thinking and debates, and brings together scholars, government, business, and civil society to influence policy. The Academy currently has five directorates: Communications & Marketing, Development, Policy, Research, and Resources, plus a small Governance & Fellowship team.

Working at the Academy

Our senior management team has worked with staff to foster a culture of collaboration, respect, and empathy, in which all contributions are recognised as we work towards our common goals. Our people strategy and working practices focus on building strengths and sharing insights, with learning and development, wellbeing, and equality, diversity and inclusion at the centre of how we operate as an organisation. Investing in our staff and encouraging a healthy work/life balance is central to our success as we move forward and continue to grow.

Terms and conditions

The British Academy is based at 10–11, Carlton House Terrace, London SW1, a Grade 1 listed building. We offer a competitive benefits package, including a 35-hour working week, with hours and location worked flexibly under our hybrid working policy; 34 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays; a subsidised canteen and an excellent occupational pension.

Hours: Part-time, four days per week, fixed-term contract for 12 months.

How to apply

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds in line with our commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive working environment, promoting equal opportunity, and addressing under-representation. We will make reasonable adjustments to support disabled job applicants and offer an interview to those meeting the minimum selection criteria.

To apply and to see the full job description and our workplace values, please click the Apply button to access the Applied recruitment platform.

Closing date: Noon on 17 July 2026.