Assistant Professor in Modern European History(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Position Summary

The Department of History at the University of Sussex is seeking to recruit an Assistant Professor in Modern European History for a fixed-term appointment. The successful candidate will contribute to teaching and research focused on nineteenth- and twentieth-century European history, excluding the history of the British Isles.

This role offers the opportunity to join a dynamic academic team known for its collaborative culture and commitment to innovative historical research. The department encourages interdisciplinary thinking and comparative perspectives that place European history within broader global contexts.

The University of Sussex has been recognised for its research excellence, ranking 4th for Impact in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, reflecting the institution’s strong contribution to academic scholarship and wider society.

Teaching and Academic Responsibilities

The appointed academic will support the delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate teaching while contributing to the wider academic community. Core responsibilities include:

Delivering lectures and seminar-based teaching in modern European history.

Contributing to undergraduate modules which may include:

• The Making of the Modern World
• The Making and Unmaking of Europe from the 1870s to the Present
• Historical Controversy
• History of Emotions
• Supervising undergraduate dissertations and mentoring students through their research projects.
• Participating in assessment, marking, and feedback processes.
• Supporting student engagement and academic development.
• Contributing to departmental discussions, events, and collaborative research activities.

Candidate Requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic knowledge alongside a commitment to high-quality teaching and student support.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• A PhD in Modern European History (excluding the history of the British Isles).
• Experience teaching within the UK higher education sector.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Evidence of an emerging research profile with developing publications.
• Ability to effectively mentor and support students.
• A collaborative approach to working within a team-based academic department.

Desirable Areas of Expertise

Candidates with research expertise in any of the following areas will be particularly encouraged to apply:

• Global or transnational perspectives on modern European history
• Histories of genocide and mass violence
• Histories of emotion and cultural experience
• Experience supervising undergraduate dissertations would also be advantageous.

About the Faculty

This position sits within the Faculty of Media, Arts and Humanities, a diverse academic community that promotes interdisciplinary research and innovative teaching. Faculty members work across traditional subject boundaries, encouraging comparative approaches that place European history within wider global narratives.

Why Join the University of Sussex

The University of Sussex offers a vibrant academic environment located near the South Downs National Park, providing an inspiring setting for both research and teaching. The campus is easily accessible via public transport, with Falmer railway station only a short walk away and multiple bus routes serving the university.

Employees benefit from:

• A supportive and collaborative academic community
• Cycle-to-work initiatives and sustainable transport options
• Professional development opportunities
• Inclusive equality, diversity, and inclusion policies
• A research-driven environment with international recognition

Immigration and Working in the UK

This role has been assigned an eligible Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code and may qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship if the successful candidate meets the required eligibility and salary criteria.

For guidance on UK immigration and employment rules.

Please note that work associated with this role must be carried out within the United Kingdom.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Sussex is committed to building a diverse academic community. Applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, and the university actively promotes inclusive recruitment practices.