Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Causal Systems Mapping of UK Leafy Greens Supply Chain(UK Visa sponsorship available)

Job Description

About the Role:

Join the interdisciplinary VF-UKFSR (Vertical Farming to Improve UK Food System Resilience) project as a Research Fellow focused on applying systems thinking to assess food system resilience and the role of vertical farming.

You’ll work with farmers, researchers, and stakeholders to map and analyze the UK leafy green supply chain, identifying vulnerabilities and exploring how it can adapt to future risks. Your work will contribute directly to shaping strategies and roadmaps that guide policy and industry around vertical farming’s role in food security.

This role involves:

Building causal systems maps via workshops, interviews, and literature reviews

Analysing risks and resilience in the leafy greens supply chain

Developing participatory methods and network analysis tools to explore system vulnerabilities

Collaborating with teams across universities to connect systems models with socio-economic, land use, and social acceptance research

Contributing to academic publications and dissemination of research findings

About You:

You will be:

An independent, motivated researcher who works well in interdisciplinary teams

Educated to PhD level (or have equivalent professional experience) in a relevant field

Experienced in systems thinking, complex systems, or participatory modelling

Skilled at stakeholder engagement and facilitating participatory processes

Knowledgeable about food systems, agriculture or horticulture, and interested in resilience and risk

Familiar with both qualitative and quantitative methods, ideally including:

Causal mapping or systems mapping

Network analysis or risk/resilience modelling

Coding in Python or R (or willing to develop this skill)

You should also have:

A track record (or clear potential) of academic publishing

The ability to manage your time and responsibilities independently

A collaborative mindset for connecting qualitative and quantitative insights across disciplines

About the Project and Division:

You’ll be part of a vibrant and growing research division at the University of Sussex, collaborating with a diverse team of researchers and stakeholders from academia, agriculture, and industry.

Why Work Here:

Beautiful campus next to the South Downs National Park

Excellent public transport access (5 minutes from Falmer Station)

Cycle-to-work scheme and staff wellbeing initiatives

A welcoming, inclusive and research-led academic environment

Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion

Part of a university that values innovation, impact, and sustainability

Key Information:

Application deadline: September 3, 2025 (5:59 PM)

Interview date: September 22, 2025

Start date: As soon as possible

Contract end date: 12 months from appointment

🔍 Visa sponsorship: This role meets eligibility for Skilled Worker sponsorship if full-time and appointed at Grade 7.4 or above. ATAS clearance may be required.

To Apply:

Visit the University of Sussex Vacancies Page for full details and to submit your application.