Senior Research Fellow in Circular Economy

Job Description

About the Role

The Sussex Energy Group within the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) at the University of Sussex Business School is seeking to appoint a Senior Research Fellow specialising in Circular Economy, Material, and Energy Use.

You will work with Professor Matthew Lockwood as part of the Production and Consumption Transformation (PACT) Research Centre, a new initiative jointly funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

In this role, you will lead research into the institutional, political economy, policy, and regulatory challenges and opportunities for reducing material throughput and energy consumption within production systems. The focus will be on circular economy strategies and related approaches within key industrial sectors such as automotive manufacturing and construction.

The PACT Centre aims to explore how the UK’s industrial strategy and resource use policies align with national and long-term climate objectives. You will collaborate with leading researchers across Lancaster, Leeds, and Sussex Universities and engage directly with policymakers to deliver actionable insights that inform real-world policy and industrial transformation.

About You

You will hold a PhD (completed by the time of appointment) in a relevant discipline such as geography, economics, political science, innovation studies, or sustainability transitions, or possess equivalent professional experience.

You should demonstrate:

• Expertise in political economy, policy, regulation, or business models related to the circular economy or material and energy reduction.
• A track record of independent research and the ability to develop and lead research agendas.
• Strong qualitative research skills, including fieldwork, interviewing, and data management.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with academic, policy, and industry audiences.
• The ability to apply and adapt concepts and theories of governance, institutions, and policy to real-world industrial contexts.
• This position offers an opportunity to make a direct contribution to UK policy and sustainability research at an international level.

About the Business School

The University of Sussex Business School is a pioneering, interdisciplinary, and research-driven institution committed to innovation, sustainability, and responsible business.

Home to five departments — Accounting and Finance, Strategy and Marketing, Management, Economics, and the renowned Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) — the School fosters cutting-edge research that influences policy and practice in the UK and worldwide.

By joining us, you will be part of a forward-thinking community that shapes the future of business education and contributes to sustainable development and impactful change.

Why Work With Us

• Our 150-acre campus, set beside the South Downs National Park, provides a beautiful and accessible working environment with:
• Excellent public transport links — Falmer train station is a five-minute walk away.
• Cycle-friendly facilities and a Cycle to Work scheme.
• A comprehensive reward and benefits package.
• A strong institutional commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

At Sussex, our people make us who we are — whether academic staff, professional services, or students — and you will join a collaborative, inclusive, and forward-thinking community.

Additional Information

Informal enquiries: Professor Matthew Lockwood — m.lockwood@sussex.ac.uk

Visa Sponsorship: This role meets the salary and occupational criteria for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship (if full-time and appointed at Grade 7.4 or above). See the Skilled Worker Visa information page
for details.

Work Location: All work must be undertaken within the UK.

Closing Date: 16 November 2025 (3:59 PM)
Interview Date: To be confirmed
Start Date: January 2026
Contract Duration: Fixed term until 31 March 2029