Research Communications & Events Officer(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Role Overview

The ESRC Centre for Digital Futures at Work (Digit) is recruiting a Research Communications and Events Officer to help communicate and promote research examining how digital technologies are transforming modern workplaces.

Digit produces research that informs policy development, business strategy, trade union activity, and wider public debate. The centre focuses on topics such as artificial intelligence in the workplace, flexible working arrangements, digital skills, and the broader impact of technological change on employment.

In this role, you will support the centre’s communications and engagement strategy by producing accessible content, organising events, and ensuring research findings reach key audiences beyond academia.

Key Responsibilities

As a member of the Professional Services team at the University of Sussex Business School, you will contribute to the centre’s outreach and engagement work through the following activities:

Communications

• Create engaging content for the centre’s website, newsletters, and social media platforms.
• Translate complex academic research into clear, accessible messages suitable for public and policy audiences.
• Assist with preparing research briefings, reports, and digital publications.
• Help strengthen the centre’s profile among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and civil society.

Events and Engagement

• Plan and coordinate a variety of internal and public-facing events, including workshops, seminars, and conferences.
• Support hybrid and online events to expand the centre’s reach.
• Liaise with speakers, partners, and participants to ensure events run smoothly.

Collaboration and Project Support

• Work closely with researchers from partner institutions including the University of Leeds.
• Coordinate communications activities with external collaborators such as FutureDotNow and the Institute for the Future of Work.
• Provide administrative and organisational support for the centre’s engagement programme.

About the Candidate

The ideal candidate will combine strong communication skills with the ability to manage multiple projects effectively.

Essential Skills and Experience

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience producing digital content for websites and social media platforms.
• Ability to explain complex or technical information in ways that are accessible to non-specialist audiences.
• Experience organising events or supporting event management activities.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines.
• A proactive and collaborative approach to teamwork.

Personal Attributes

Successful candidates will also show:

• Flexibility and initiative when managing workloads.
• A professional and calm approach when handling multiple tasks.
• Enthusiasm for working in a collaborative research environment.

About the University of Sussex Business School

The University of Sussex Business School is a research-led and interdisciplinary academic community committed to producing impactful research and innovative teaching.

The school is home to five academic departments:

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

Through its research and partnerships, the school aims to shape responsible business practices and inform policy decisions in the UK and internationally.

Why Join the University of Sussex

Located near the South Downs National Park, the University of Sussex campus provides a vibrant and inspiring place to work.

Benefits of working at Sussex include:

• Access to professional development opportunities
• A collaborative international research environment
• Sustainable travel initiatives such as the cycle-to-work scheme
• Convenient public transport links, with Falmer railway station located nearby
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion

Working in the UK and Visa Information

This position may qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship depending on the candidate’s eligibility and salary level. The assigned occupational code for the role is SOC 2493 – Public Relations Professionals, with a current going rate of £37,000.

For official guidance regarding working and immigration requirements in the UK.

Please note that all work undertaken for this position must be carried out within the United Kingdom.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Sussex values diversity within its workforce and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds. The institution is committed to creating an inclusive environment where staff and students can thrive.