Material and Energy(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About the Role

The Sussex Energy Group, part of the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) within the University of Sussex Business School, is seeking an outstanding Senior Research Fellow to contribute to the newly established Production and Consumption Transformation (PACT) research centre.

Funded jointly by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), PACT focuses on aligning the UK’s industrial and resource strategies with its climate objectives.

Working closely with Professor Matthew Lockwood, you will lead research into the institutional, policy, and political economy dimensions of reducing material throughput and energy use in production. This includes exploring the role of the circular economy and other transformative approaches in key sectors such as automotive manufacturing and construction.

The successful candidate will engage directly with policy makers to deliver actionable insights that inform real policy change and will collaborate with leading academics from Lancaster, Leeds, and Sussex Universities.

About You

You will hold a PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant discipline—such as geography, economics, political science, innovation studies, or sustainability transitions—with a focus on the political economy, policy, regulation, or business models of circular economy or resource reduction in production systems.

Essential attributes include:

• Strong analytical skills and ability to apply theories of governance, institutions, and policy to industrial contexts.
• Proven ability to work independently and develop a coherent research agenda.
• Expertise in qualitative research methods, including fieldwork, interviewing, and data management.
• A track record of effective communication with academic, policy, and non-academic audiences.

About the University of Sussex Business School

The University of Sussex Business School is a pioneering, research-driven, and interdisciplinary faculty dedicated to advancing responsible business and management practices.

Comprising five departments—Accounting and Finance, Strategy and Marketing, Management, Economics, and the internationally recognised Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU)—the School fosters impactful research that informs policy and drives sustainable innovation.

By joining us, you will become part of a dynamic academic community committed to shaping a sustainable and equitable global future.

Why Join Sussex

Our vibrant 150-acre campus is located beside the South Downs National Park, with excellent transport links:

• A five-minute walk from Falmer train station
• Multiple bus routes through campus
• Cycle-friendly routes and a Cycle to Work scheme

The University of Sussex is a world-renowned, research-led institution that values its people. We offer a comprehensive reward and benefits package, as well as a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Further Information

This role requires work to be undertaken within the UK.
Visa sponsorship may be available under the Skilled Worker route for eligible applicants (see the University’s Skilled Worker Visa information page for details).