Research Assistant in Archaeometallurgy at McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, University of Cambridge, UK

About Position/Job

The McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research at the University of Cambridge invites applications for a fixed-term Research Assistant in Archaeometallurgy. This position is part of the ERC Advanced Grant-funded project Reverse Engineering Collective Action: Complex Technologies in Stateless Societies (REVERSEACTION), led by Professor Marcos Martinón-Torres. The role offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic, international research environment, focusing on pre-Hispanic gold artefacts and ancient technologies. The successful candidate will be part of a leading team in archaeological science and will contribute to innovative research at the intersection of archaeology, materials science, and collective technological practices.

Position/Job Details

Position: Research Assistant in Archaeometallurgy
Institution: University of Cambridge
Department: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
Research field: Archaeometallurgy
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Number of post: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (until 30 September 2026)
Start Date (Anticipated): July 2025
Working Hours: Full-time
Salary Range: £32,546–£35,116
Required Degree/Diploma: Archaeology

Research Area

Archaeometallurgy
Analytical chemistry and material science of ancient artefacts
Pre-Hispanic gold artefacts
SEM-EDS and metallographic analysis
Indigenous technologies
Collective action in stateless societies

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Degree in archaeology, materials science, or a closely related discipline
Experience with metallographic and SEM-EDS analysis
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
Ability to work collaboratively and independently
Familiarity with data management and analysis

Preferred Qualifications:

Commitment to open science practices
Awareness and support for diversity and inclusion in academic research
Experience working in a multi-disciplinary and international team
Willingness to travel for research, including to Colombia

Key Responsibilities

Conduct metallographic and SEM-EDS characterisation of pre-Hispanic gold artefacts from Colombia
Assist in the interpretation and reporting of analytical results
Contribute to data sharing and collaborative research
Support the project’s broader research goals and publication efforts

Application Process

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their application online via the University of Cambridge recruitment system.

Click the ‘Apply now’ link provided below to register and apply. Informal queries can be directed to Prof. Marcos Martinón-Torres at m.martinon-torres@arch.cam.ac.uk. For help with the application process, contact hr@hsps.cam.ac.uk.