About the Program
The University of Tübingen invites applications for a funded PhD position in Archaeometry titled “Stone Age Engineering: Investigating Adhesive Making and Ochre Heat Treatment in Southern Africa and Europe” at the Faculty of Science, Department of Geosciences. This doctoral position focuses on the production and analysis of organic adhesives and their evolutionary significance in the Stone Age, with a focus on transformative technologies in Africa and Europe. The project is embedded within a DFG-funded research framework, closely linked to a DFG Heisenberg Project led by the Principal Investigator. The PhD duration is three years, based in Tübingen, Germany, and combines laboratory experiments, archaeometric analysis, and international fieldwork. The position offers excellent research conditions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and hands-on experimental archaeology.
Program Details
- Position: Funded PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen
- Department/Faculty: Faculty of Science, Department of Geosciences
- Supervisor: Dr Patrick Schmidt
- Location: Tübingen, Germany
- Start Date (Anticipated): 2026
- Duration: 3 years (fixed-term)
- Funding: E13 TV-L (65% employment contract)
- Working Hours: Part-time (65%)
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Archaeometry, Chemistry, or a closely related discipline
Where Did We Come From? Turn the Page and See
Research Focus / Area
- Archaeometry and experimental archaeology
- Organic adhesive production in the Stone Age
- Ochre heat treatment technologies
- Evolutionary archaeology
- Stone Age engineering techniques
- Laboratory-based material analysis
- Fieldwork-based archaeological research
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in archaeometry, chemistry, or related fields
- Strong interest in experimental and laboratory-based archaeological research
- Ability to work collaboratively within a research team
Preferred Qualifications:
- Background in organic chemistry
- Experience with laboratory experiments
- Willingness to conduct extended fieldwork in Southern Africa and Europe
- Motivation to contribute new fundamental data to archaeological science
Key Features of the Program
- Employment within a DFG-funded research project
- International fieldwork in Africa and Europe
- Extensive laboratory and experimental research
- Interdisciplinary academic environment
- Strong institutional commitment to equality and diversity
- Supportive research culture within a leading German university
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications should be submitted by email in PDF format.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
E-Mail: patrick.schmidt@uni-tuebingen.de
Important Dates
- Applications Open: December 2025
- Deadline: 31 December 2025
- Interview: TBA
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Tübingen
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Method: Email to: patrick.schmidt@uni-tuebingen.de
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