Material and Energy(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About the Role

The Sussex Energy Group within the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) at the University of Sussex Business School invites applications for a Senior Research Fellow in Circular Economy, Material and Energy Use.

This position is part of the Production and Consumption Transformation (PACT) Research Centre, funded jointly by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

You will work with Professor Matthew Lockwood to lead research on the institutional, policy, and regulatory challenges associated with reducing material throughput and energy use in UK industries—particularly in sectors such as automotive manufacturing and construction.

The post involves close collaboration with policy-makers and academic partners at Lancaster, Leeds, and Sussex, producing research that informs policy and supports the UK’s transition to sustainable, circular production systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct high-level research on circular economy strategies and low-energy production.
• Analyse the political economy, regulatory frameworks, and institutional dimensions of resource use.
• Lead and contribute to multi-institutional research projects under the PACT programme.
• Engage directly with policy-makers, industry, and academic stakeholders.
• Publish findings in high-impact academic journals and policy reports.
• Present research outcomes to academic, policy, and public audiences.
• Support collaborative, interdisciplinary work within SPRU and the Business School.

About You

You will hold a PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline such as political science, economics, geography, innovation studies, or sustainability transitions.

Essential Skills and Experience:

• Proven expertise in circular economy, resource efficiency, or energy transitions.
• Strong background in qualitative research methods, including fieldwork and interviewing.
• Ability to apply governance, institutional, and policy theories to real-world industry challenges.
• Excellent communication skills, with experience engaging academic, policy, and non-academic audiences.
• Evidence of independent research leadership and publication.

About the Business School

The University of Sussex Business School is a leading centre for interdisciplinary, research-driven learning, with departments in:

• Accounting and Finance
• Strategy and Marketing
• Management
• Economics
• Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU)

The School is internationally recognised for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and policy impact. Faculty members are part of a supportive, forward-thinking academic community making tangible contributions to global sustainable development.

Why Work at Sussex

• Beautiful campus within the South Downs National Park, minutes from Brighton.
• Excellent public transport links (Falmer Station 5-minute walk).
• Cycle to Work scheme and sustainable travel options.
• Supportive, inclusive working environment with flexible arrangements.
• Competitive reward and benefits package and strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Visa Information

This role is eligible for Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship if appointed full-time at Grade 7.4 or above.