Job Description
About the Role
The University of Sussex is inviting applications for a fixed-term Assistant Professor position in European History since 1500 (excluding the history of the British Isles).
This position sits within the university’s History Department and provides an opportunity for an early-career scholar to contribute to teaching and research in early modern and/or modern European history.
The successful candidate will support the department’s undergraduate teaching while also contributing to a dynamic academic community committed to interdisciplinary approaches and global perspectives in historical research.
Possible teaching areas may include modules such as:
- The Early Modern World
- The Making of the Modern World
- Ideas of History
- History of Emotions
- There may also be opportunities to contribute to the MA History programme.
Your role will involve delivering lectures and seminars, supervising dissertations, supporting students academically, and participating in assessment and marking activities.
The department has a strong reputation for impactful research and was ranked fourth in the UK for research impact in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.
Key Responsibilities
Teaching and Student Engagement
- Deliver engaging lectures and seminars for undergraduate history modules
- Provide supervision for undergraduate dissertations and research projects
- Offer academic guidance and mentoring to students
Assessment and Academic Support
- Design and mark coursework and examinations
- Provide constructive feedback that supports student learning and development
- Participate in departmental teaching activities and curriculum development
Research and Scholarly Contribution
- Maintain an active research agenda in European history
- Develop publications and contribute to scholarly discussions in the field
- Participate in departmental research culture and academic events
Candidate Profile
Applicants should demonstrate both academic expertise and teaching experience in European history.
Essential Requirements
Candidates should have:
- A PhD in European History since 1500 (excluding the British Isles)
- Experience teaching in the UK higher education sector
- Strong communication and presentation skills
- Evidence of developing research outputs or publications
- The ability to support and mentor undergraduate students
- A collaborative approach to working within a collegial department
Desirable Expertise
Knowledge in any of the following areas would be particularly valuable:
- Global or transnational histories of early modern and modern Europe
Histories of emotion
- Experience supervising undergraduate dissertations is also desirable.
Academic Environment
- This role forms part of the Faculty of Media, Arts and Humanities at the University of Sussex.
- The faculty encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and research that addresses contemporary global challenges through humanities scholarship.
- The university campus is located near the South Downs National Park, offering a vibrant academic environment within a beautiful natural setting.
- The campus is easily accessible by public transport, with Falmer railway station located just a short walk away.
Why Join the University of Sussex
Working at Sussex means becoming part of a globally recognised research community.
Benefits include:
- A supportive and collaborative academic culture
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression
- Flexible working arrangements where possible
- Sustainable travel initiatives including a cycle-to-work scheme
- Access to campus facilities and services
- The university values diversity and aims to create an inclusive working environment for all staff and students.
Eligibility and Work Requirements
Applicants must ensure they meet the legal requirements to work in the United Kingdom.
This position may qualify for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship if appointed at Grade 7.5 and if the candidate meets the relevant salary thresholds and eligibility criteria.
Applicants may wish to consult the following UK Government guidance:
- Skilled Worker visa overview
- Salary thresholds and tradeable points for Skilled Worker visas
- List of eligible occupation codes for visa sponsorship
- Proving your right to work in the UK
- Workplace equality and discrimination protections
All work for the university must be undertaken within the United Kingdom.
If you also intend to apply for the related role Assistant Professor in Modern European History (Ref: 43178).
Equality and Inclusion
The University of Sussex welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community.
Application Support
If you experience difficulties with the application portal or require adjustments during the recruitment process.