Job Description
The Opportunity
The History Department at the University of Sussex is seeking to appoint an Assistant Professor in Modern European History for a fixed-term appointment.
This role offers the chance to join a department known for its intellectual openness, interdisciplinary collaboration and global outlook. You will contribute to the teaching of nineteenth- and twentieth-century European history while helping to sustain a dynamic academic community committed to critical enquiry and contemporary relevance.
This is an ideal opportunity for an early-career historian with proven teaching experience in UK higher education who is looking to consolidate their academic profile within a supportive and research-active environment.
Your Contribution
Teaching & Student Engagement
You will teach across a selection of undergraduate modules, likely to include:
- The Making of the Modern World
- The Making and Unmaking of Europe from the 1870s to the Present
- Historical Controversy
- History of Emotions
Your responsibilities will include:
- Designing and delivering lectures and seminars
- Supervising undergraduate dissertations
- Setting and marking assessments
- Providing academic and pastoral guidance
- Contributing to curriculum development where appropriate
All teaching will align with UK higher education regulatory and equality frameworks, including:
- Equality Act 2010
- Higher Education and Research Act 2017
- Office for Students regulatory framework
- Prevent Duty Guidance for Higher Education Institutions
- Skilled Worker visa guidance (where applicable)
About You
You will hold a PhD in Modern European History (excluding the history of the British Isles) and bring a strong commitment to innovative, inclusive teaching.
Desirable Areas of Expertise
Applications are particularly encouraged from scholars with research strengths in:
- Global or transnational histories of modern Europe
- Histories of genocide
- Histories of emotion
Essential Qualities
- Substantial teaching experience within the UK Higher Education sector
- An emerging and developing publication profile
- Strong communication skills across diverse student cohorts
- Experience or readiness to supervise undergraduate dissertations
- Ability to work collaboratively within a collegial department
You will be someone who values teamwork, intellectual exchange and student development, and who can contribute positively to departmental life.
About the Department
The History Department at the University of Sussex is recognised for its interdisciplinary approach and its commitment to global and comparative historical perspectives. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, the department was ranked 4th in the UK for Impact, reflecting its strength in connecting historical scholarship with contemporary debates and public engagement.
The department forms part of the Faculty of Media, Arts and Humanities, where collaboration across disciplines is actively encouraged.
Why Join Sussex?
Located near the South Downs National Park, the University’s 150-acre campus provides an inspiring academic setting. Falmer railway station is a short walk from campus, and the University supports sustainable commuting through cycling infrastructure and public transport links.
As a research-intensive and internationally recognised institution, Sussex places its people at the centre of its success. Staff benefit from a supportive academic culture, professional development opportunities, and a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Visa & Eligibility
This role carries an eligible SOC code and may qualify for Skilled Worker sponsorship if appointed full-time at Grade 7.5, subject to meeting UK Government salary and tradeable points criteria. Applicants are encouraged to review the official guidance linked above.
All work undertaken for the University must be performed within the United Kingdom.