Assistant Professor in Modern European History(UK Sponsorship)

Uk
March 12, 2026

Job Description

About the Role

The Department of History at the University of Sussex is seeking to recruit a talented and enthusiastic Assistant Professor in Modern European History for a fixed-term teaching-focused academic position.

This role will contribute to teaching and academic support within the undergraduate History programme, particularly in courses focused on nineteenth- and twentieth-century European history. The successful candidate will join a collaborative academic community that values interdisciplinary perspectives and encourages global and comparative approaches to historical research.

The position involves delivering engaging lectures and seminars, supervising undergraduate research projects, and supporting students through assessment and academic guidance.

Teaching and Academic Duties

The Assistant Professor will contribute to a variety of undergraduate modules related to modern European history. While final teaching allocations will be confirmed later, expected modules may include:

  • The Making of the Modern World
  • The Making and Unmaking of Europe (1870s to the Present)
  • Historical Controversy
  • History of Emotions

Core responsibilities include:

Candidate Profile

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic credentials and a commitment to teaching excellence.

Essential requirements:

  • A PhD in Modern European History or a closely related field (excluding the history of the British Isles).
  • Substantial teaching experience within the UK higher education sector.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills.
  • An emerging record of research publications or scholarly output.
  • Commitment to supporting students and fostering an inclusive learning environment.

Desirable research expertise may include:

  • Global or transnational histories of modern Europe.
  • Genocide studies or conflict-related histories.
  • Histories of emotions.

Experience supervising undergraduate dissertations will be considered an advantage. The department is also looking for a candidate who thrives in a collegial and collaborative academic environment.

About the History Department

The History Department at Sussex is known for its innovative teaching and interdisciplinary research culture. Faculty members work across a wide range of historical themes and geographical contexts, emphasising comparative and global perspectives.

In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), Sussex History was ranked 4th in the UK for research impact, highlighting the department’s significant contribution to public debate, education, and cultural understanding.

Faculty of Media, Arts and Humanities

The role sits within the Faculty of Media, Arts and Humanities, a vibrant academic community bringing together scholars across disciplines including history, literature, philosophy, cultural studies, and creative arts. The faculty supports cutting-edge research and encourages collaboration across academic fields.

Why Join the University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is a globally recognised research institution located in a scenic setting near the South Downs National Park.

Key benefits include:

  • A beautiful 150-acre campus environment close to Brighton.
  • Easy access to public transport, including Falmer railway station located just a short walk from campus.
  • Cycling routes and a Cycle to Work scheme supporting sustainable travel.
  • Access to staff development opportunities and a supportive academic community.

The university’s achievements are driven by the diverse talents of its staff and students, making it an inspiring place to work and conduct research.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Sussex is committed to building a diverse and inclusive academic environment. Applications are welcomed from individuals from all backgrounds, and the university actively promotes equality of opportunity.

Applicants interested in both this role and the Assistant Professor in European History (Ref: 43179) position may contact the recruitment team for additional guidance.

Visa Sponsorship and Immigration Information

This role has been assigned a suitable Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code and may be eligible for UK Skilled Worker visa sponsorship if the position is offered full-time and the candidate meets the relevant immigration and salary requirements.

Candidates may need to qualify using tradeable points options under the UK immigration rules.

Please note that all work carried out for the University must take place within the United Kingdom.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: 19 March 2026 – 4:59 PM
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Contract Period: 1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027