Senior Research Fellow in Circular Economy(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex Business School’s Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) is seeking a Senior Research Fellow in Circular Economy / Material and Energy Use to join the Sussex Energy Group.

This position is part of the Production and Consumption Transformation (PACT) Research Centre, a new interdisciplinary initiative jointly funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

The role focuses on exploring how industrial, policy, and governance systems can reduce material throughput and energy use in production—through strategies such as circular economy practices—across sectors like automotive manufacturing and construction.

You will contribute to cutting-edge research on the institutional, regulatory, and political economy challenges of transitioning to sustainable production systems, working closely with policymakers and academic collaborators at Lancaster University, Leeds University, and Sussex.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead research on the policy, governance, and institutional dimensions of circular economy strategies and material efficiency in industrial systems.
• Conduct qualitative and policy research, including fieldwork, stakeholder interviews, and data analysis.
• Collaborate with academic and policy partners to translate research findings into actionable insights.
• Publish high-quality outputs in peer-reviewed journals and policy-oriented publications.
• Support the broader objectives of the PACT Research Centre by contributing to interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.
• Engage with UK policymakers, industry leaders, and civil society stakeholders to inform and influence sustainable production and consumption policies.

About You

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• A PhD (awarded or near completion) in geography, political science, economics, sustainability transitions, innovation studies, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in the political economy, governance, or policy dimensions of the circular economy or sustainable production.
• Strong methodological training and experience in qualitative research techniques (e.g., interviews, field research, policy analysis, data management).
• Proven ability to work independently and develop an original research agenda.
• Track record of communicating research effectively to academic, policy, and non-academic audiences.

Desirable:

• Experience with interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with UK or EU industrial, energy, or resource policy landscapes.

About the Faculty

The University of Sussex Business School is a dynamic, research-driven faculty committed to addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary research and education.

Home to five departments—Accounting and Finance, Strategy and Marketing, Management, Economics, and the world-renowned Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU)—the School promotes innovation, sustainability, and social impact in business and policy.

Why Join the University of Sussex?

• Beautiful 150-acre campus located next to the South Downs National Park.
• Easily accessible by train (5 minutes from Falmer Station), bus, or cycle routes.
• Supportive, inclusive, and research-focused environment.
• Access to excellent staff benefits including:
• Competitive salary and pension scheme
• Hybrid and flexible working
• Cycle-to-work scheme
• Professional development opportunities
• Comprehensive rewards and benefits package

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Visa and Sponsorship Information

This position has an eligible Skilled Worker visa SOC code and meets sponsorship requirements if appointed full-time at Grade 8.

How to Apply

Apply via the University of Sussex Job Portal by 16 November 2025 (3:59 PM).
Include:

• A cover letter outlining your suitability for the role.
• A current CV.

Equal Opportunities

The University of Sussex celebrates diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.
All work for the University must be conducted within the UK.