Senior Research Fellow in Circular Economy(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 is seeking a Senior Research Fellow to join the Production and Consumption Transformation (PACT) Research Centre. PACT is jointly funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to advance research on sustainable production and consumption.

The successful candidate will lead research on:

• Institutional, political economy, and regulatory challenges to reducing material and energy use in production.
• Strategies such as circular economy approaches across industries, including automotive manufacturing and construction.
• Aligning UK industrial and resource consumption policies with climate and net-zero targets.

The role includes direct engagement with policymakers and collaboration with leading researchers at Lancaster, Leeds, and Sussex Universities to generate actionable insights that inform policy change.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in geography, economics, political science, innovation studies, sustainability transitions, or related fields.
• Proven ability to develop and lead independent research agendas in circular economy, material efficiency, or energy reduction.
• Experience in qualitative research methods, including fieldwork, interviews, and data management.
• Strong ability to communicate research findings effectively to academic, policy, and non-academic audiences.
• Understanding of governance, policy, institutions, and business models related to circular economy or sustainability.
• For guidance on qualitative methods and research excellence: UKRI Research Guidance

About the Faculty

The University of Sussex Business School is an interdisciplinary, research-driven environment dedicated to advancing business, management, and sustainability research. SPRU, one of its flagship research units, is internationally recognized for producing policy-relevant research on energy, climate change, and innovation.

Faculty highlights:

• Five academic departments: Accounting & Finance, Strategy & Marketing, Management, Economics, and SPRU.
• Strong focus on sustainability, responsible business, and innovation in policy and practice.
• Collaborative, multi-university projects with measurable real-world impact.
• Faculty website: Sussex Business School

Why Work at Sussex

• Beautiful 150-acre campus adjacent to the South Downs, with excellent transport links.
• Supportive, research-led environment promoting innovation, collaboration, and professional development.
• Comprehensive staff benefits, including pension schemes, flexible working, on-site facilities, and cycle-to-work schemes.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University of Sussex is committed to valuing diversity, promoting equality, and supporting an inclusive workplace. Applications are encouraged from underrepresented groups in academia and industry.

Visa Sponsorship

This role is eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker Visa, subject to SOC code eligibility and meeting the salary threshold.

How to Apply

Submit applications through the University of Sussex online portal.