Having been promoted to Associate Professor of Endocrine Biochemistry in 2023, Dr Mueller shares how he made this career step whilst continuing his lifelong passion for education and research.
“There is an ingrained view that academics tend to think they need a big grant before applying for a promotion” explains Jonathan. “There is a widely held belief that research is the only way to get ahead, but my experience shows academic colleagues who are earlier in their careers that this doesn’t have to be the case.”
Jonathan’s application to be an Associate Professor took advantage of the Birmingham Academic Career Framework promotion criteria in education, research, impact, citizenship and leadership. Although Jon’s area of specialism is in endocrinology, he significantly contributed to teaching and assessment activities, including reimagining opportunities for engaging students and delivering courses during the pandemic. This broad portfolio helped to build Jon’s case for career progression.
“I’m serious about professionalism in teaching. I have pursued qualifications that ensure I am able to provide the highest quality teaching experience. Alongside this, I always aim for a friendly and inclusive learning environment. Creating the right culture is a big part of getting the education experience right. I have achieved substantial intramural and external recognition for leadership in education.”
Jon is pioneering digital resources that enhance teaching, always willing to explore new opportunities to better engage, capture feedback and share the ideas of students. He champions the use of digital approaches to teaching, such as electronic discussion board and in-lecture polling, and actively shares his skills and knowledge with colleagues in teaching.
Jonathan was the proud recipient of the Outstanding Teaching Award for the whole Medical School in 2019 and again in 2020, awarded by the Guild of Students and the Vice Chancellor.
“I’m delighted to have made such a positive impression with students. I remember meeting three final year medical students who said they could recall the first-year lecture I gave, it was unique and memorable even 5 years down the line and many of their peers had chatted positively about my lectures since.”
One of Jonathan’s priorities is promoting a culture of equality in education that values diversity and inclusion. He is a visible role model, participating in LGBTQ+ ally recruiting and training, as well as being a mentor for LGBTQ students through the University’s Careers Network. He is also a Mental Health First Aider, drawing on his own experience of recently diagnosed disability to support others.
Jonathan is passionate about passing on his expertise to others. He has shared his experience of online exams for the continuous professional development of other teaching staff, and presented his views on various dedicated educational conferences. He is also a mentor and an assessor in the BEACON programme, increasing the number of professionally accredited teaching staff in our college and in the wider university.
“In hindsight, I should have discussed promotion plans way earlier with senior colleagues and academic mentors. And this is something I recommend wholeheartedly to others.”