Research Fellow in Anti-Autocratic Messaging(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

Role overview

The University of Sussex is recruiting a Research Fellow to join NEWREPUBLIC, a major European Research Council–funded programme examining how ideas shape resistance to autocratic rule and how political messages can mobilise and persuade citizens in challenging political environments.

Working alongside the Principal Investigator, doctoral researchers and project staff, you will play a central role in the design, delivery and analysis of large-scale survey research in three African countries. Each survey will include experimental components designed to test the effectiveness of different anti‑autocratic messages. Your work will directly inform high‑impact academic publications and policy‑relevant outputs.

This role offers a rare opportunity to influence the intellectual direction of an ambitious international research programme while developing an independent research profile within a supportive, research‑intensive environment.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement and analyse nationally representative surveys and survey experiments
• Apply advanced quantitative methods to the study of political messaging and public opinion
• Co‑author articles for submission to leading peer‑reviewed political science journals
• Translate academic findings into policy‑relevant and public‑facing outputs
• Present research at international conferences, workshops and policy events
• Contribute to the development of follow‑on research agendas and funding proposals
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across Sussex, including the Centre for the Study of Corruption and the Institute of Development Studies

About you

You will be an early‑career researcher motivated to build a sustained research agenda on anti‑autocratic ideas, political messaging and democratic resilience.

Essential criteria

• PhD in political science or a closely related discipline
• Strong publication record relative to career stage in peer‑reviewed journals
• Demonstrated expertise in survey experiments and quantitative analysis
• Research interests aligned with political behaviour, messaging, ideology or discourse

Desirable experience

• Knowledge of African politics, autocratic regimes or democratic resilience
• Experience presenting research to academic and non‑academic audiences
• Involvement in research coordination, supervision or mentoring
• Experience contributing to research funding applications

Research environment

You will be based in the Department of Politics, part of the School of Law, Politics and Sociology. The department has an international reputation for excellence in political science research and teaching, with strong links to Sussex’s globally recognised research centres.

As part of the Sussex research community, you will also benefit from tailored professional development support through the Sussex Researcher School, designed to support early‑career researchers in building sustainable academic careers.

Why join Sussex

The University of Sussex is a leading research‑intensive university with a strong commitment to academic freedom, global engagement and social impact. Our campus sits at the edge of the South Downs National Park and is easily accessible by public transport, cycling routes and rail connections.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, flexible working options and an inclusive working culture where staff are supported to thrive.

Equality, right to work and visa information

The University of Sussex is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in line with the Equality Act 2010 (UK Government guidance). All appointments are subject to right‑to‑work checks in accordance with Home Office requirements.

This post has been assigned an eligible Skilled Worker visa SOC code and meets salary requirements for sponsorship when appointed at the appropriate Grade 7 spinal point. Further information is available via official UK Government guidance on:

• Skilled Worker visas
• Immigration salary thresholds and tradeable points
• Right to work checks
• Equality and employment protections
• Research funding and governance standards

How to apply

Please submit:

• A cover letter (maximum two pages)
• A CV
• One writing sample (maximum 10,000 words)

Closing date: 28 January 2026 (23:59)
Expected interview date: Week commencing 2 March 2026
Expected start date: July 2026

The University of Sussex welcomes applications from all backgrounds and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for staff and students alike.