Job Description
About the Role
The Consortium for the Humanities and the Arts South East England (CHASE) is a leading AHRC-funded Doctoral Training Partnership, supporting postgraduate research (PGR) across eight institutions: Birkbeck, The Courtauld Institute of Art, Goldsmiths, SOAS, and the Universities of East Anglia, Essex, Kent, and Sussex.
We are seeking a Senior Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Officer to lead and coordinate EDI initiatives across the consortium. You will play a key role in advancing and embedding inclusive practices for postgraduate researchers, building on CHASE’s existing EDI efforts while identifying areas for further development.
You will work closely with CHASE staff, EDI experts, academic leads, and administrative teams at all partner institutions to:
Consolidate and promote EDI best practices across the PGR community.
Develop and lead EDI-focused projects and initiatives.
Conduct additional research and consultation where needed.
Facilitate collaboration and shared learning across member universities.
This role is an excellent opportunity to shape and influence meaningful, cross-institutional EDI activity in the arts and humanities research landscape.
About You
We are looking for a candidate with:
Demonstrated experience in EDI work within higher education, preferably with a focus on postgraduate research or academic communities.
A current understanding of EDI policies, practices, and challenges in the HE sector.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with academic staff, researchers, and professional colleagues.
An organised, proactive approach and the ability to work independently across complex institutional settings.
Desirable:
A background in postgraduate research in the arts, humanities, or social sciences.
About the Division
This role is based within the Research and Innovation Division at the University of Sussex, which supports research excellence and global impact. Our division facilitates the development of world-class research ideas, manages external funding, and fosters innovation through collaboration and interdisciplinary work.
Find out more about the division: Research and Innovation – University of Sussex
Why Work at Sussex
The University of Sussex is a world-renowned, research-led university, located just minutes from the South Downs National Park. Our Falmer campus is accessible via public transport (5-minute walk from Falmer Station) and supports active travel with dedicated cycling paths and a cycle-to-work scheme.
At Sussex, we value our people. Whether you’re part of the faculty, a researcher, or a professional services team member, your contribution is key to our continued success.
Explore our reward and benefits package
Learn about our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
Important Information
Visa Sponsorship: This role does not meet eligibility for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship due to its part-time nature. Please see our Skilled Worker Visa page
for further information.
Work Location Requirement: All work must be conducted within the UK.
Diversity Commitment: We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable working environment.
To apply, please visit the University of Sussex vacancies page
and follow the instructions.