Birkbeck, University of London is inviting applications for an Associate Lecturer in Archaeology, with a focus on prehistory, within the School of Historical Studies. The position is a part-time, fixed-term teaching role on the university’s undergraduate Archaeology programme.
The successful candidate will teach the module Beginnings – The Archaeology of the Prehistory, which covers prehistoric archaeology from the Palaeolithic to the Late Bronze Age. Teaching will cover topics such as early hominins, modern humans, the Upper Palaeolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic and Bronze Age settlement patterns, with particular attention to Europe and Britain.
The Associate Lecturer will teach undergraduate students and contribute to module administration. This includes supervising essay topic selection and marking presentations and essays.
Applicants should have a PhD or equivalent qualification in an appropriate specialism, undergraduate teaching experience and a developing research record in the field. Knowledge of historiographical and theoretical debates in the study of prehistory is also required.
The role involves 30 hours of teaching on Wednesdays from 6–9pm between January and March 2027. The starting rate is £69.68 per hour, inclusive of pro-rata London Allowance and holiday pay.
Position Details
- Position: Associate Lecturer – Archaeology
- Official Reference number: 2517
- Institution: Birkbeck, University of London, United Kingdom
- Department: School of Historical Studies
- Location: London, United Kingdom
- Research Discipline(s): Archaeology, Prehistoric Archaeology
- Contract: Fixed-term
- Working pattern: Part-time
- Teaching period: January–March 2027
- Salary: £69.68 per hour starting rate
- Required Qualification: PhD or equivalent
Research Areas
The position covers the following areas:
- Prehistoric archaeology
- Palaeolithic archaeology
- Early hominins and modern humans
- Upper Palaeolithic archaeology
- Mesolithic archaeology
- Neolithic archaeology
- Bronze Age archaeology
- Prehistoric settlement patterns
- Archaeological theory and historiography
Eligibility/Qualifications
Required qualifications and experience include:
- A PhD or equivalent qualification in an appropriate specialism.
- Strong knowledge of prehistoric archaeology from the Palaeolithic to the Late Bronze Age, including its environmental background and the origins of the concept of prehistory.
- Knowledge of early hominins, modern humans and the Upper Palaeolithic, particularly in Europe.
- Knowledge of Mesolithic, Neolithic and Bronze Age settlement patterns, with a focus on Britain, as well as deposition in later prehistory.
- An understanding of historiographical and theoretical debates in the study of prehistory.
- Undergraduate teaching experience and an understanding of different teaching and learning methods, including experience working with students from diverse backgrounds.
- A developing research track record in the field.
- Strong oral and written communication skills and good administrative abilities.
Salary and Benefits
The Associate Lecturer position is paid at an hourly rate based on Grade 7 and the length of continuous service with the College. The starting rate is £69.68 per hour, inclusive of pro-rata London Allowance and holiday pay.
The rate includes a Duties Related to Teaching Multiplier of 2.5, which covers:
- Preparation and teaching
- Course administration
- Assessment marking
- Other examining duties related to the course
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver teaching for the undergraduate module Beginnings – The Archaeology of the Prehistory.
- Supervise students in the selection of essay topics.
- Mark student presentations and essays.
- Undertake related course administrative duties.
- Contribute teaching informed by current research and knowledge of prehistoric archaeology.
Application Process
Candidates should apply through Birkbeck, University of London’s online recruitment system. Only formal applications submitted through the online system will be considered.
For enquiries, contact Dr Lesley McFadyen at l.mcfadyen@bbk.ac.uk.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 12 October 2026
- Interview Period: 5 November 2026
Eligible candidates should submit their formal application through the official Birkbeck recruitment system before the closing date.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology Jobs Worldwide
- Prehistory Research Positions
- Humanities Academic Opportunities
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- Academic Research Jobs Internationally
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the position at Birkbeck?
The position is Associate Lecturer in Archaeology within the School of Historical Studies.
What will the successful candidate teach?
The successful candidate will teach Beginnings – The Archaeology of Prehistory as part of Birkbeck’s undergraduate Archaeology programme.
What are the teaching hours?
The role involves 30 hours of teaching, scheduled on Wednesdays from 6–9 pm between January and March 2027.
What qualification is required?
Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent qualification in an appropriate specialism.
What is the salary for the position?
The starting rate is £69.68 per hour, inclusive of pro-rata London Allowance and holiday pay.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 12 October 2026. Interviews are scheduled for 5 November 2026.
Institutional Overview
Birkbeck, University of London is a member institution of the University of London, based in central London. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes across a range of academic disciplines, including the arts, humanities, social sciences and sciences. The university’s academic structure includes the School of Historical Studies, which brings together teaching and research in areas including history and archaeology. Birkbeck’s Archaeology programme covers the study of past societies through archaeological evidence and related approaches. The university provides opportunities for students to study at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, alongside academic staff working across different areas of research. Its London location also provides access to the city’s wider academic, cultural and research environment.
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