University of Sussex
Senior Research Fellow in Political Economy of UK Energy and Materials Policy Ref: 44033 (Fixed Term)
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About The Role
The Sussex Energy Group, within the Science Policy Research Unit at the University of Sussex Business School, are seeking to appoint a Senior Research Fellow in Political Economy to work with Professor Matthew Lockwood as part of the 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).
This role involves leading research on the political economy, institutional, policy and regulatory challenges and opportunities for reducing material throughput and energy use in production and consumption in the UK, with a particular focus on housing and cars.
PACT will explore the alignment of the UK’s industrial strategy, and resource consumption policies with both short term and long-term climate targets. You will work directly with policy makers delivering actionable insights that can lead to real policy change; and with leading researchers across three Universities: Manchester, Leeds and Sussex.
About You
You will have a PhD (obtained at the time of the appointment) in political economy, political science, geography, economics, innovation studies, sustainability transitions or similar fields, relevant to the roles of political economy, policy, regulation and business models in resource and energy use in production, consumption or both (especially in housing and cars) or equivalent experience gained through non-academic experience.
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Have proven capacity to work independently and develop a research agenda and the analytical skills or experience necessary to apply existing concepts and theories about governance, institutions and policy in industry.
You should have strong knowledge and methods training, and experience, in qualitative techniques such as field research and interviewing, and data management and evidence of the ability to communicate effectively to academic, policy and non-academic audience.
This role is due to begin by 1 January 2027.
About Our Faculty
As a pioneering research-driven and interdisciplinary Faculty, the University of Sussex Business School offers an inspiring and supportive environment for impactful business and management research and scholarship. Our five dynamic Departments—Accounting and Finance, Strategy and Marketing, Management, Economics, and the renowned Science Policy Research Unit (SPRU)—are dedicated to advancing academic excellence and practical insights to inform policy and drive responsible business solutions.
With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, the School shapes the future of business education, producing research and scholarship and graduates that make a difference in the UK and globally. By joining us, you will be part of a distinctive, future-focused community influencing real-world practices and promoting sustainable development.
Please find further information regarding the University of Sussex Business School on our website.
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Why work here
Our university is situated off the A27, next to the beautiful South Downs where you will enjoy everything that our 150-acre campus has to offer. We are accessible by public transport; Falmer train station is a five-minute walk to campus and several bus stops are located within campus. We also have dedicated cycling paths and encourage our staff to use these with our offering of a cycle to work scheme.
Sussex is a renowned, multi-accredited, research-led International University and this is only possible because of the people that work here. Whether you are a member of Faculty, part of a Professional Services team or a Student, it’s our people that make us great and we want you to be part of that.
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Further Key Information
Please contact Matthew Lockwood (m.lockwood@sussex.ac.uk) for informal enquiries.
The University of Sussex values the diversity of its staff and students, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
Eligibility
Visa Sponsorship Queries: This role has been assigned an eligible SOC code and meets the salary requirements for Skilled Worker Sponsorship if full time and appointed at Grade 7.4. Please consult our Skilled Worker Visa information page for further information about Visa Sponsorship.
The University requires that work undertaken for the University is performed in the UK.
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