Maritime Archaeology Research Position in Italy – Bologna

About Position / Job

Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna invites applications for a temporary research position in Maritime and Inland Water Archaeology in the Ancient Mediterranean. Based at the Department of Cultural Heritage (DBC) in Ravenna, this role focuses on the long-term study of Adriatic and Tyrrhenian coastal contexts, spanning from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages.

The research examines the typology and structure of ancient boats, navigation techniques, and the archaeology of inland waters, including rivers, lakes, marshes, and lagoons. A distinctive feature of the project is its integration of archaeological research with ethnographic and anthropological analysis of Mediterranean maritime cultures. The position aligns closely with the department’s strengths in heritage studies and archaeological science, offering a rich interdisciplinary environment and strong regional relevance within Italian and Mediterranean archaeology.

Position / Job Details

Position: Researcher (R1–R4)
Institution: Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna
Department: DBC – Beni Culturali
Research Field: Archaeology
Location: Ravenna, Italy
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Temporary, Full-time Research Position
Start Date (Anticipated): Not specified
Working Hours: Not specified
Salary Range: Not specified
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Maritime archaeology of the ancient Mediterranean
Coastal archaeology of the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas
Inland water archaeology (rivers, lakes, lagoons, marshes)
Ancient ship typology and construction
Navigation techniques from antiquity to the Middle Ages
Ethnographic and anthropological approaches to maritime cultures

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD or equivalent degree
1–4 years of research experience
Good working knowledge of English

Preferred Qualifications:

Background in maritime or nautical archaeology
Experience with Mediterranean archaeological contexts
Interdisciplinary research experience combining archaeology and anthropology

Key Responsibilities

Conduct independent and collaborative research on maritime and inland water archaeology
Analyse archaeological evidence related to ancient boats and navigation
Contribute to ethnographic and anthropological interpretations of maritime cultures
Publish research findings in peer-reviewed venues
Participate in departmental research activities