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

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex is recruiting a Research Fellow in Anti-Autocratic Messaging to contribute to NEWREPUBLIC, a European Research Council-funded project exploring the ideas behind anti-autocratic movements and the effectiveness of these ideas in shaping public opinion.

You will work closely with the Principal Investigator, two PhD students, and a project officer to:

• Design, implement, and analyse nationally representative surveys across three African countries.
• Conduct survey experiments and interpret findings to inform academic outputs.
• Co-author publications in leading political science journals.
• Present research at conferences, co-lead policy workshops, and contribute to follow-on project planning.

This role provides opportunities to influence the project’s direction and contribute to a broader research agenda that extends beyond NEWREPUBLIC. You will also help translate academic insights into impact, collaborating with policy makers and public engagement initiatives.

Department Context:
The role is based in the Politics Department, which houses the Centre for the Study of Corruption
and maintains strong ties to Sussex’s Institute of Development Studies
and School for Progressive Futures Support for early-career researchers is provided via the Sussex Researcher School

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• PhD in Political Science or a closely related field.
• Evidence of publications in top-tier journals, appropriate to career stage.
• Expertise in survey experiments, public opinion research, or quantitative methods.
• Knowledge of political messaging, political behaviour, discourse, or ideology studies.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• Experience submitting funding applications, presenting at academic conferences, and public engagement.
• Knowledge of African, US, or autocratic politics, democratic resilience, or anti-autocratic movements.
• Experience in research coordination, supervision, or mentorship.

Why Join Sussex?

• Work on a high-impact, internationally funded research project.
• Collaborate with leading academics and gain exposure to global research networks.
• Access state-of-the-art facilities at the Falmer Campus, near the South Downs.
• Enjoy excellent work-life balance, including flexible working and cycling to work schemes.
• Participate in a diverse, inclusive, and supportive research environment.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:
The University of Sussex celebrates diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds. We support Disability Confident Employers, Athena SWAN, and LGBT+ inclusion initiatives.

Application Process

Applicants should submit:

• Cover letter (max 2 pages)
• CV
• Writing sample (max 10,000 words)