Research Associate Position in Archaeology at University of Cologne, Germany
About Position/Job
The University of Cologne is inviting applications for a full-time Research Associate (f/m/d) in the field of Archaeology, based in the Institute for Prehistoric Archaeology and affiliated with the Multidisciplinary Environmental Studies in the Humanities (MESH). This position is part of the innovative ECOLITHIC project (“A Radical Ecosystems View of Lithic Macro-Evolution”), funded by the VolkswagenStiftung under its prestigious Unknown Unknowns programme.
The post explores long-term technological evolution during the Late Pleistocene and connects deep-time archaeology with complexity science and Earth system thinking. The appointment is for two years, offering an exciting opportunity for early-career or interdisciplinary researchers.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Research Associate (f/m/d)
- Institution: University of Cologne
- Department: Institute for Prehistoric Archaeology & MESH
- Research Field: Archaeology, Palaeolithic Studies, Lithic Technology, Complexity Science
- Location: Cologne, Germany
- Number of Post: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-Term (2 Years)
- Start Date (Anticipated): As soon as possible
- Working Hours: 100% (E13 scale)
- Salary Range: German TV-L E13 salary scale (~€4,200–€5,000/month depending on experience)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Palaeolithic Archaeology and Lithic Technology
- Technological Evolution and Deep-Time Studies
- Network Science and Computational Modelling
- Earth System Science and Technosphere Theory
- Environmental Humanities and Interdisciplinary Synthesis
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Archaeology or in computational fields (e.g., data science, theoretical biology, complexity science)
- Strong interest in interdisciplinary collaboration
- Proven research ability and publications in relevant fields
- Excellent English communication and writing skills
- Coding experience (preferably in R)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Background in Palaeolithic or lithic analysis
- Experience with simulation/modelling (e.g. ABM, network analysis, ML)
- Familiarity with GIS tools and platforms (e.g. NetworkX, Gephi)
- Demonstrated ability to work across disciplines and generate original research ideas
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Work Package 3: “Theoretical Simulations of Lithic Macro-Evolution”
- Develop and test ecosystem-based models of long-term technological change
- Publish high-quality research independently and collaboratively
- Translate theoretical concepts into data-driven methods
- Support PI with data collection, workshop organisation, and academic outreach
- Collaborate with researchers in Bonn and Barcelona
Application Process
How to Apply
Apply through the University of Cologne Job Portal using the official link provided in the full call.
Required Documents:
- CV
- Cover Letter explaining research interest and motivation
- List of publications
- Contact details for referees
Subject Line: Application – Research Associate (ECOLITHIC Project)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: May 2025
- Deadline: 25 May 2025
- Interview Date: To be announced to shortlisted candidates
Useful Links
- University Website: https://www.uni-koeln.de
- MESH Research Hub: https://mesh.phil-fak.uni-koeln.de
- Apply Now: ECOLITHIC_JOB.pdf
