Research Fellow – Systems Thinking and Food System Resilience(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow to apply systems thinking and complex systems approaches to the study of the UK food system, with a focus on vertical farming and supply chain resilience for leafy greens.

You will work as part of the UKRI-funded VF-UKFSR project, collaborating with an interdisciplinary team from multiple universities and agricultural partners. The core aim is to understand and map risks, vulnerabilities, and opportunities in the UK’s leafy green supply chain — and how vertical farming could enhance its resilience.

Key responsibilities include:

Leading the development of causal systems maps for the leafy greens supply chain

Conducting workshops with farmers (both conventional and vertical)

Analysing risks and potential supply chain disruptions

Exploring adaptation strategies with stakeholders

Supporting the development of novel participatory and analytical tools to assess system resilience

You will also collaborate with colleagues working on socio-economic modelling, land use, and social acceptance to contribute toward a roadmap for UK food system resilience.

About You

We are looking for a highly motivated and independent researcher with the following:

Essential Criteria:

A PhD (or near completion) in a relevant discipline or equivalent professional experience

Demonstrated experience or strong interest in:

Systems thinking and complexity

Food systems, horticulture, or agriculture

Resilience, risk analysis, and participatory research

Strong communication skills and ability to work across disciplines and with external stakeholders

Experience organising workshops or engaging with community/stakeholder groups

Proven ability to manage your own workload and contribute to academic publications

Desirable Skills:

Experience with systems mapping or participatory modelling methods

Familiarity with network analysis, causal analysis, or resilience metrics

Coding skills in R or Python

Ability to bridge qualitative and quantitative methodologies

Interest in developing new tools to support food system stakeholders

The Department

You will be based in the Department of Informatics at the University of Sussex, a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment with a strong emphasis on impactful research. Learn more: www.sussex.ac.uk/informatics

Why Join Sussex?

The University of Sussex is located on a scenic 150-acre campus at the edge of the South Downs National Park, just minutes from Brighton and easily accessible by train and bus. We offer:

A cycle-to-work scheme and dedicated cycling infrastructure

A supportive and inclusive research culture

A commitment to professional development and interdisciplinary collaboration

A strong institutional commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

Explore:

Our employee benefits

Our EDI strategy

Further Information

Visa Sponsorship:
This role meets the criteria for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, if appointed at Grade 7.4 full-time. If sponsorship is required, ATAS clearance may also apply depending on your nationality and qualifications. For more, visit: Skilled Worker Visa guidance

Right to Work Requirement:
All work must be conducted within the UK.

Equality and Diversity

The University of Sussex is committed to equal opportunities and values diversity. We strongly encourage applications from women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates, particularly in underrepresented STEMM fields.

How to Apply

Visit our vacancies page
to view full application details and submit your application.