About the Program
The University of Vienna invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Evolutionary Anthropology titled “PhD Student in Evolutionary Anthropology (with a focus on Palaeoproteomics)” at the Faculty of Life Sciences. This doctoral position centres on developing and applying advanced palaeoproteomic methods to analyse bones, teeth, and sediments from Middle and Later Stone Age sites across Africa, addressing key questions about the presence and dispersal of early modern humans. Supervised by Associate Professor Katerina Douka, the project forms part of the ERC-funded RIFT-TO-RIM Project, which investigates human movement from Africa to Eurasia and Sahul between 200,000 and 10,000 years ago. The role is based in Vienna, Austria, over a three-year funded period, and offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, fieldwork, international research engagement, and specialised training in biomolecular archaeology.
Where Did We Come From? Turn the Page and See
Program Details
- Position: Fully funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Vienna
- Department/Faculty: Faculty of Life Sciences, Department of Evolutionary Anthropology
- Supervisor: Associate Professor Katerina Douka
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Start Date (Anticipated): March 2026
- Duration: 3 years (fixed-term until February 2029)
- Funding: Fully funded position under CBA §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc), salary €3,714.80/month (full-time, experience may increase salary)
- Working Hours: 30 hours per week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Zooarchaeology, or Biomolecular Archaeology
Research Focus/Area
- Palaeoproteomics (including ZooMS)
- Prehistoric Archaeology (Palaeolithic / Stone Age)
- Ancient DNA
- Radiocarbon dating and isotopic analysis
- Human Evolution and early modern human dispersals
- Archaeological Science and Zooarchaeology
- Fieldwork and museum-based sampling across African regions
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology, Zooarchaeology, or Biomolecular Archaeology
- Strong interest in biomolecular archaeology, including ZooMS, radiocarbon and stable isotope analysis
- Ability to travel for fieldwork and museum research
- Excellent communication skills and academic writing ability
- Fluency in English
Preferred Qualifications
- Fieldwork experience in Palaeolithic/Stone Age contexts
- Experience with ZooMS, zooarchaeology, ancient DNA, or related archaeological science techniques
- Collaborations with African archaeological teams or institutions
- Experience using databases or scientific IT tools
Key Features of the Program
- International, interdisciplinary research environment
- Training in palaeoproteomics, radiocarbon dating, pretreatment chemistry, and ancient genomics
- Opportunities for fieldwork in multiple African countries
- Access to advanced laboratories and specialist facilities
- Support for conference presentations and professional development
- Flexible working conditions and strong institutional support
Application Process
How to Apply
Apply via the University of Vienna job portal by submitting:
- Curriculum vitae
- Short motivation letter (max 2 pages) outlining research interests and motivation
- Previous degree certificates
- Contact details of referees
Required Documents
- CV
- Motivation Letter (English)
- Academic Transcripts
- Contact information for reference providers
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 20 December 2025
- Interviews: To be announced by the University of Vienna
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Vienna
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Click here
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