Job Description
About the Role
The University of Sussex is recruiting a Research and Teaching Fellow to join a cutting-edge initiative focused on reducing the carbon footprint of healthcare systems.
This position sits within the MRC-funded Green Healthcare Hub, a transdisciplinary research programme dedicated to decarbonising healthcare commissioning and delivery. The role will be based at BSMS and embedded within the Sustainability Team led by Prof. Mahmood Bhutta.
The fellow will contribute to developing advanced carbon analysis approaches that help healthcare professionals measure, understand, and reduce emissions while improving service efficiency and patient outcomes.
The research will focus on practical decarbonisation strategies, particularly:
- Reducing unnecessary healthcare activity (appointments, diagnostics, prescriptions)
Promoting reuse of medical products and pharmaceuticals
Identifying high-impact policy changes that improve both sustainability and healthcare quality
Key Responsibilities
Research & Carbon Analysis
- Contribute to development of carbon measurement frameworks for healthcare systems
Support research into sustainable medicines use and low-carbon clinical practices
Analyse healthcare processes to identify emission reduction opportunities
Evaluate policy interventions with high decarbonisation potential
Teaching & Knowledge Sharing
- Deliver teaching and training sessions within sustainability and healthcare contexts
Support capacity-building for healthcare professionals on low-carbon care delivery
Contribute to educational materials and academic development in the field
Collaboration & Project Work
- Work within a multidisciplinary research hub involving academia, NHS partners, and policy stakeholders
Collaborate with teams across global health, infection, and sustainability research
Contribute to publications, reports, and dissemination of findings
Manage independent research tasks while contributing to team objectives
Candidate Profile
Essential Requirements
- PhD (or near completion) in sustainability, healthcare research, medicine use, environmental health, or related discipline
Strong research background in sustainable healthcare or carbon reduction methodologies
Ability to manage independent work while contributing to collaborative research projects
Experience or interest in teaching or academic knowledge transfer
Desirable Skills
- Understanding of healthcare systems and clinical workflows
Experience in data analysis, sustainability modelling, or policy research
Strong communication skills for academic and non-academic audiences
Interest in interdisciplinary and applied research environments
About BSMS & the University Environment
Brighton and Sussex Medical School
is a joint medical school between the Universities of Sussex and Brighton, working closely with NHS partners across South-East England.
The institution is known for:
- High-impact medical and healthcare research
Strong focus on sustainability and innovation in medicine
Collaborative teaching across academic and clinical environments
Commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and excellence in education
Why Join This Role?
This fellowship offers the opportunity to contribute to one of the most urgent global challenges—reducing the environmental impact of healthcare systems.
You will work at the intersection of research, policy, and clinical practice, helping shape future healthcare systems that are both effective and environmentally sustainable.
The role provides strong academic development opportunities, exposure to international research collaboration, and involvement in policy-relevant work with real-world impact.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
University of Sussex Equality & Diversity
is committed to creating an inclusive academic environment and particularly encourages applications from underrepresented groups in STEMM disciplines.
Visa & Eligibility Information
This position may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to meeting salary and eligibility requirements.
- UK Skilled Worker Visa Guidance
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
UK Right to Work Checks
UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) Guidance
National Health Service (NHS England)
Additional Information
- Start Date: 1 July 2026 (or as soon as possible)
Interview Date: 10 June 2026
Application Deadline: 25 May 2026
For informal enquiries, applicants may contact the hiring team via the University of Sussex recruitment channels.