Utrecht University invites applications for an Assistant Professor in Palaeontology within the Department of Earth Sciences for the 2026–2027 recruitment cycle. The post focuses on geosciences research and higher education while supporting the development of an independent research line in vertebrate palaeontology, invertebrate palaeontology, micropalaeontology, conservation palaeobiology, and carbonate sedimentology. The appointment strengthens research and teaching capacity within Earth Sciences, aligned with collaborative academic work across European research networks.
The role combines research, teaching, and supervision within a balanced departmental structure. The successful candidate will contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in Earth Sciences while advancing research in palaeontology and evolution. Duties include participation in field teaching in France and Spain, alongside engagement in departmental academic activities. The position reflects an integrated academic workload across research, education, and service within a university setting.
The appointed Assistant Professor will develop an independent research programme that complements existing strengths in palynology, palaeobotany, stratigraphy, and sedimentology. Teaching responsibilities include core Earth Sciences courses and specialist modules in palaeontology and carbonate depositional environments. Supervision of BSc, MSc, and PhD candidates forms part of the academic role.
The post also involves participation in research collaborations and preparation of competitive grant applications. The successful candidate will contribute to peer-reviewed publications and support field-based teaching activities in France and Spain within established programme structures.
Position Details
- Position: Assistant Professor in Palaeontology
- Institution: Utrecht University, Netherlands
- Department: Department of Earth Sciences
- Research Disciplines: Geosciences, Geology, Palaeontology
- Location: Utrecht, Netherlands
- Job Type: Faculty Position (Assistant Professor)
- Contract Duration: 18 months with potential for permanent appointment
- Start Date: September 2026 – January 2027
- Working Hours: 32–40 hours per week
- Salary/Funding: €4,728–€6,433 monthly (scale 11, full-time)
- Required Qualification: PhD in Earth Sciences or related natural sciences
Teaching/Research Area
- Vertebrate paleontology
- Invertebrate paleontology
- Micropaleontology
- Conservation paleobiology
- Carbonate sedimentology
- Paleobiology and evolution
Eligibility/Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- PhD in Earth Sciences or closely related natural science discipline
- Two to three years of postdoctoral research experience preferred
- Recognised expertise in palaeontology or geosciences research
- Strong publication record in peer-reviewed international journals
- Demonstrated ability to secure competitive research funding
- Experience in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching delivery
- Proven supervision of BSc, MSc, or PhD research projects
- Commitment to field-based Earth Sciences teaching activities
- English proficiency at C1 level or equivalent standard
- Willingness to develop practical Dutch communication skills within two years
Key Responsibilities
- Develop an independent research programme in palaeontology and geosciences
- Contribute to vertebrate, invertebrate, and micropalaeontology research outputs
- Deliver Earth Sciences teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate levels
- Supervise BSc, MSc, and PhD research projects within departmental programmes
- Participate in field-based teaching courses in France and Spain
- Secure external funding through competitive research grant applications
- Publish peer-reviewed research in international scientific journals
- Contribute to departmental governance, committees, and academic service duties
Application Process
Applicants must submit a structured application demonstrating research vision, teaching strategy, and academic experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, research presentations, and teaching assessments conducted by Utrecht University.
Required documents include:
- Motivation letter outlining academic profile and research direction
- Five-year research and teaching vision (maximum three A4 pages)
- Curriculum vitae with publications and teaching record
- Contact details of two academic referees
- Evidence of academic qualifications and relevant experience
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 30 May 2026
- Application Deadline: 30 June 2026 (21:59 UTC)
- Interview Period: 21–22 July 2026
- Expected Start Date: September 2026 – January 2027
Early application is advisable due to competitive international selection procedures and visa processing requirements.
Related Academic Opportunities
- International faculty positions
- Academic jobs in the Netherlands
- Fully Funded Visiting Fellowships in Europe
- Archaeology and Sciences job opportunities
- Assistant professor academic jobs in international universities
- Academic and research positions at leading European universities
Institutional Overview
Utrecht University is a leading research-intensive institution in the Netherlands with a strong global reputation in Earth Sciences, geosciences, and environmental research. The Department of Earth Sciences supports advanced research infrastructure, interdisciplinary collaboration, and high-impact academic output across palaeontology and geological sciences. The university promotes inclusive academic development, international research engagement, and innovation-driven teaching within European geosciences networks.
Discover the latest faculty positions, lecturer jobs, and academic opportunities worldwide, including PhD positions, postdoctoral fellowships, and scholarships at HigherJobz to advance your academic career and research profile.
