Assistant Professor in Politics(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the role
The School of Law, Politics and Sociology at the University of Sussex is inviting applications for a part-time Assistant Professor in Politics to join the department on a six-month fixed-term basis.
This role has been created to provide teaching continuity and academic support during a period of staff research leave. Positioned on the Education and Scholarship pathway, the post focuses on high-quality undergraduate teaching, assessment, and student engagement within a vibrant and research-active academic community.
You will play a central role in delivering intellectually engaging teaching that encourages critical thinking and debate, while also contributing to the smooth running of the department during this transitional period.
Key responsibilities
In this role, you will:
- Convene and deliver the undergraduate module The Far Right and the Politics of Immigration
Teach lectures and seminars on modules such as:
- Feminism and the Politics of Gender
- The Neoliberal Age? Interpreting Modern Britain
- Contribute to assessment, feedback, and academic advising
- Support students’ learning and progression through inclusive and effective teaching practices
- Undertake associated administrative responsibilities in line with the role
About you
You will be a committed and engaging educator with a strong academic background in Politics or a closely related discipline.
You will bring:
- A completed PhD in Politics or a relevant field
- Experience teaching at undergraduate level in a university setting
Subject expertise aligned with one or more of the following areas:
- Far-right politics and extremism
- Immigration and migration
- Gender and feminist politics
- British politics and political economy
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- The ability to collaborate effectively within an academic team and contribute positively to departmental life
About the department
Politics at Sussex is a well-established, research-led department with a strong national and international reputation. The department is home to approximately 20 academic staff and 600 students, offering a stimulating environment for teaching and scholarship.
It hosts the internationally recognised Sussex European Institute and the Centre for the Study of Corruption, alongside research strengths in British politics, party systems, citizenship, migration, populism, protest politics, and anti-politics.
In the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF), 96% of departmental outputs were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent, with a significant improvement in overall GPA. Teaching quality is also highly rated, with strong outcomes in the National Student Survey (NSS).
Why work at Sussex?
The University of Sussex is set on a 150-acre campus at the edge of the South Downs National Park, offering an exceptional working environment that combines academic excellence with outstanding natural surroundings.
The campus is well connected by public transport, with Falmer railway station just a short walk away, alongside multiple bus routes and dedicated cycling paths supported by a cycle-to-work scheme.
As a research-led international university, Sussex places people at the heart of everything it does — fostering a collegial, inclusive, and supportive culture for staff and students alike.
Equality, right to work, and visa information
- The University of Sussex is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds. This commitment aligns with the principles set out in the Equality Act 2010
- All work for the University must be undertaken in the UK, in line with right to work regulations
- While this role has been assigned an eligible SOC code, it does not meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship due to its part-time nature
- The University’s teaching and assessment practices reflect national expectations for academic standards and quality assurance
- Our approach to academic governance and employment practices aligns with UK public sector and higher education guidance
Key dates
Closing date: 22 February 2026 (15:59 UK time)
Interview date: 12 March 2026
Contract duration: 6 months (fixed term)
