Fellowship Overview
University of Algarve invites applications for the Funded Scientific Research Fellowship (BI-L) 2026 in Archaeology and Anthropology at ICArEHB, Faro, Portugal. This competitive ERC OLAF research opportunity focuses on Oldowan stone tools and human evolution studies. Moreover, it supports advanced archaeological investigation across East Africa, especially Ethiopia, with a strong emphasis on lithic analysis and paleoenvironment reconstruction.
This international fellowship is designed for early-stage researchers who want to strengthen their academic careers in archaeology and anthropology. In addition, it promotes interdisciplinary research linking human evolution, environmental archaeology, and African prehistory studies. Fellows will contribute directly to ERC-funded research outputs, ensuring high-impact academic publications and global collaboration opportunities.
Fellows will undertake a structured 12-month research residency at ICArEHB in Faro, Portugal. During this period, they will actively participate in laboratory analysis, field archaeology, and museum-based research work. Furthermore, they will engage in academic seminars, workshops, and expert-led discussions within a dynamic research environment.
The project strongly connects archaeological science with evolutionary anthropology and palaeoenvironmental studies. Therefore, applicants interested in stone tool variation, Oldowan industries, and early hominin behaviour are highly encouraged to apply. Additionally, it supports international academic exchange between Portugal and East Africa.
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Fellowship Details
- Fellowship name: Scientific Research Fellowship (BI-L) ERC OLAF 2026
- Fellowship type: Research Fellowship (BI-L)
- Host Institution: University of Algarve
- Research Centre: ICArEHB
- Location: Faro
- Country: Portugal
- Research Field(s): Archaeology, Anthropology, Human Evolution, Lithic Analysis
- Duration: 12 months
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
- Funding / Compensation: €1,090.98 monthly (Funded)
- Required Degree / Diploma: Bachelor’s in Archaeology or Anthropology
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Research Area
- Archaeology
- Anthropology
- Human Evolution
- Stone Tool Technology
- Lithic Analysis
- Paleoenvironment Reconstruction
- African Prehistory
- Field Archaeology
- Experimental Archaeology
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field
- Strong English speaking and writing skills
- Fieldwork experience in East Africa (Kenya or Ethiopia preferred)
- Experience with stone tool analysis
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in paleoenvironmental reconstruction methods
- Familiarity with lithic datasets and archaeological field methods
- Exposure to museum-based archaeological research
- 3D modelling experience (advantageous)
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Fellowship Benefits
- Monthly stipend of €1,090.98
- International fieldwork in Ethiopia
- Access to ICArEHB research facilities
- Academic workshops and seminars
- ERC-funded research environment
- Collaboration with global archaeologists
- Publication and career development opportunities
Key Responsibilities
- Analyse stone tool assemblages from Ledi Geraru
- Compare lithic variation with environmental datasets
- Support archaeological fieldwork in East Africa
- Assist with museum-based research documentation
- Contribute to the ERC OLAF research outputs
- Participate in academic discussions and reporting
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents via email to jsreeves@ualg.pt before the deadline: 15 May 2026.
Required Documents:
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages, English)
- Academic degree certificates
- Identification document copy
- Relevant research experience evidence
- Enrollment proof (if applicable)
- Additional supporting documents (optional)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 04 May 2026
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026 (Europe/London time)
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
Where to Apply
- University/Institution: University of Algarve
- Department: ICArEHB – Interdisciplinary Centre for Archaeology and Evolution of Human Behaviour
- Job ID: 023/2026 / ERC OLAF 101165303
- Source: EURAXESS / University of Algarve official portal
- Details: Scientific Research Fellowship (BI-L) in Archaeology – ICArEHB
- Apply Link: Research Grant 023/2026 – Bachelor within the project 101165303 — OLAF — ERC-2024-STG
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research positions, international academic collaboration, and advanced archaeological research opportunities in Portugal and East Africa.
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