Assistant Professor in European History (UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

The Role

The History Department at the University of Sussex invites applications for a fixed-term Assistant Professor in European History (post-1500), excluding the history of the British Isles.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to an intellectually ambitious and interdisciplinary department known for its global outlook and collaborative ethos. You will teach across Early Modern and/or Modern European History and help sustain a vibrant teaching and research culture that encourages comparative and transnational perspectives.

The role is primarily teaching-focused, with scope to contribute to postgraduate provision and to develop your own research profile during the appointment.

What You Will Contribute

Teaching & Student Engagement

You will support a range of undergraduate modules, likely to include:

• The Early Modern World
• The Making of the Modern World
• Ideas of History
• History of Emotions

Responsibilities include:

• Delivering lectures and leading seminars
• Supervising undergraduate dissertations
• Marking and assessment
• Providing pastoral and academic guidance to students
• Potential contribution to the MA History programme

You will play an active role in maintaining inclusive and intellectually stimulating classrooms, ensuring compliance with UK higher education quality and equality standards, including:

• Equality Act 2010
• Higher Education and Research Act 2017
• Prevent Duty Guidance (for Higher Education institutions)
• UK Quality Code for Higher Education (Office for Students framework)
• Skilled Worker Visa guidance (where applicable)

Who We Are Looking For

You will hold a PhD in European History since 1500 (excluding the history of the British Isles). Applications are particularly welcomed from scholars whose work intersects with:

• Global or transnational histories of Early Modern or Modern Europe
• Histories of emotion
• Comparative European perspectives

Essential Criteria

• Demonstrable teaching experience within the UK Higher Education sector
• Ability to deliver high-quality lectures and seminar teaching
• An emerging research and publication record
• Experience or readiness to supervise undergraduate dissertations
• Strong communication skills and commitment to student support
• A collaborative approach to departmental life

You should be comfortable working within a team-oriented environment and contributing to a department that values interdisciplinary dialogue and collegiality.

About the Department

The History Department at the University of Sussex is known for its innovative and outward-looking approach to historical enquiry. It maintains a strong commitment to global and comparative methods, encouraging scholars and students to think across geographic and thematic boundaries.

In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, the department was ranked 4th in the UK for Impact, reflecting its ability to connect historical research to contemporary public and policy debates.

The department forms part of the Faculty of Media, Arts and Humanities, a community that fosters intellectual creativity and cross-disciplinary exchange.

Why Join Sussex?

Set within 150 acres near the South Downs National Park, the campus combines natural surroundings with a dynamic research environment. Falmer railway station is a short walk from campus, and the University supports sustainable commuting through cycling infrastructure and public transport links.

Sussex is a research-led international institution shaped by its people. Faculty, professional staff and students together create an environment defined by intellectual curiosity, integrity and inclusion.

The University is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Visa & Eligibility

This role carries an eligible SOC code and may qualify for Skilled Worker sponsorship if appointed at Grade 7.5 full-time, subject to UK Government salary and tradeable points requirements. Applicants are advised to review the official guidance linked above.

All work undertaken for the University must be performed within the United Kingdom.