 From 1949 to 1961, Obolensky was Reader in Russian and Balkan Medieval History at the University of Oxford (1949–61) and subsequently Professor of Russian and Balkan History (1961–85, Emeritus 1985-2001).He was also a Student of Christ Church, Oxford (1950–85, Emeritus 1985-2001).He later became Vice-President of the Keston Institute, Oxford.