About Position/Job
The University of Bristol is recruiting a Research Associate / Senior Research Associate in Biomolecular Statistical Analysis to work on the NERC-funded AquaNeo project, investigating the role of aquatic resources in Prehistory. This interdisciplinary research position connects organic geochemistry, biomolecular archaeology, and advanced statistical modelling, using formal model comparison frameworks to analyse biomolecular residues from Neolithic pottery. The role involves close collaboration between the Organic Geochemistry Unit (Bristol) and the Molecular and Cultural Evolution Lab (UCL), with academic guidance from Dr Melanie Roffet-Salque and Prof Mark Thomas. The project contributes to major debates on prehistoric diets and subsistence strategies, aligning with departmental strengths in archaeological science, data-driven research, and quantitative methods. Researchers will apply R or Python-based statistical approaches to generate high-impact findings within a supportive, internationally connected research environment.
Position/Job Details
- Position: Research Associate / Senior Research Associate
- Institution: University of Bristol
- Department: School of Chemistry
- Research field: Biomolecular Statistical Analysis
- Location: Bristol, United Kingdom
- Number of posts: Not specified
- Job Type: Full-time or Part-time (minimum 0.8 FTE), Research
- Start Date (Anticipated): Not specified
- Working Hours: Not specified
- Salary Range: £39,906–£50,253 per annum (depending on grade and experience)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Degree
Research Area
- Biomolecular archaeology
- Organic geochemistry
- Statistical modelling and model comparison
- Prehistoric diet and subsistence research
- Quantitative data science in archaeology
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Degree or equivalent experience in Data Science, Statistics, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Biology, Archaeology, or related field
- Proven expertise in R or Python for analysing complex datasets
- Experience writing scientific reports and peer-reviewed publications
- Strong collaboration and communication skills in interdisciplinary research
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in archaeological science
- Knowledge of isotopic or biomarker chemical data
- Track record of developing innovative statistical or analytical methods
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and validate statistical analyses of biomolecular datasets
- Apply formal quantitative models to reconstruct dietary patterns
- Collaborate with research teams at Bristol and UCL
- Present findings at academic meetings and conferences
- Publish results in high-impact peer-reviewed journals
Application Process
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the University of Bristol online jobs portal. Ensure all documents are uploaded before the deadline.
Required Documents:
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts
- Publication list (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Not specified
- Deadline: 16 February 2026
- Interview Date: Early March 2026 (anticipated)
Useful Links
- Institution Website: University of Bristol
- Official Notification Link: Click here
- Apply now: Click here
