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

Job Description

About the Role

The Sussex Energy Group, part of the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) within the University of Sussex Business School, invites applications for a Senior Research Fellow in Circular Economy / Material and Energy Use.

This post is part of the newly established Production and Consumption Transformation (PACT) Research Centre, jointly funded by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). You will work with Professor Matthew Lockwood and collaborate with researchers from Lancaster, Leeds, and Sussex universities.

The successful candidate will lead research into the institutional, political economy, policy, and regulatory challenges and opportunities involved in reducing material throughput and energy use in industrial production. Focus areas may include sectors such as automotive manufacturing and construction, exploring circular economy strategies and their alignment with the UK’s industrial strategy and climate targets.

Given DESNZ’s direct involvement (funding 35% of the project), the role will involve close engagement with policymakers, delivering actionable insights to support real-world policy change.

About You

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

You will bring:

• Proven expertise in analysing the political economy, policy, or governance dimensions of the circular economy, material reduction, or energy transitions.
• Strong methodological grounding and experience in qualitative research methods, such as fieldwork and interviewing.
• The ability to manage and analyse qualitative data effectively.
• A track record of independent research and developing a clear research agenda.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate research findings to academic, policy, and industry audiences.
• Experience working in interdisciplinary teams or on policy-relevant projects will be an advantage.

About the Faculty

The University of Sussex Business School is a pioneering, research-driven, and interdisciplinary environment that supports impactful scholarship and policy engagement. The School comprises five departments — Accounting and Finance, Strategy and Marketing, Management, Economics, and the Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU) — and is globally recognised for research excellence in sustainability, innovation, and public policy.

With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, the School equips graduates and researchers to influence real-world change and promote responsible, sustainable development.

Why Join Us

The University of Sussex is located on a beautiful 150-acre campus on the edge of the South Downs National Park, offering an inspiring environment for research and collaboration.

The campus is easily accessible — just a five-minute walk from Falmer train station, with multiple bus routes serving the area. Staff are encouraged to travel sustainably through the Cycle to Work scheme and dedicated cycling paths.

Sussex is an internationally recognised, research-led university, proud of its people and culture. We offer an excellent reward and benefits package and are strongly committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Additional Information

Visa Sponsorship:
This post is eligible for Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship and meets the salary requirements if appointed full-time at Grade 8. For

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

The University of Sussex values diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in research and academic roles.