Vanderbilt University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Bioarchaeology and Stable Isotope Research within the Department of Anthropology in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. The appointment investigates human and faunal remains using isotope techniques to explore ancient migration, dietary practices, and human–animal interactions throughout the Americas.
The researcher will analyse archaeological samples from Latin America and the Andes while contributing to ongoing departmental studies. The position includes independent project development, laboratory workflows, archaeological interpretation, and collaboration with scholars from diverse research areas.
The fellow will prepare samples, manage isotope datasets, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. Research activities include stable carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and occasional sulfur isotope analysis of collagen and carbonate materials to examine past subsistence, mobility, and environmental connections.
Alongside laboratory responsibilities, the researcher will train students and oversee routine activities within the Bioarchaeology & Stable Isotope Research Lab. The role supports collaborations across Anthropology, Biological Sciences, and Earth and Environmental Sciences while contributing to research communication and academic partnerships.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellow
- Institution: Vanderbilt University, USA
- Department: Department of Anthropology
- Research Disciplines: Bioarchaeology, Stable Isotope Analysis, Archaeological Science
- Location: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Research Position
- Contract Duration: Two years, with consideration for a two-year renewal
- Start Date: Immediately or preferred by August 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary/Funding: Funded postdoctoral appointment (salary details not provided)
- Required Qualification: PhD in biological anthropology, archaeology, geochemistry, or related field
Research Areas:
- Stable isotope analysis of archaeological remains
- Ancient human and animal diets
- Human migration and mobility studies
- Bioarchaeology of the ancient Americas
- Laboratory-based archaeological research
- Paleoecological and anthropological investigations
Eligibility / Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- PhD in biological anthropology, archaeology, geochemistry, or a related field.
- Experience with stable isotope sample preparation and analysis.
- Knowledge of carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen isotope methods.
- Experience analysing archaeological materials, including collagen and carbonate samples.
- Ability to work independently and manage laboratory activities.
- Experience training undergraduate or graduate students.
- Strong organisational, communication, and research skills.
Key Responsibilities
The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will contribute to the Bioarchaeology & Stable Isotope Research Lab through the following activities:
- Conduct sample preparation for stable isotope analysis of human and faunal remains.
- Perform laboratory protocols for carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen isotope research.
- Analyse and interpret isotope datasets using archaeological frameworks.
- Manage sample inventories, laboratory procedures, and technical documentation.
- Train students in laboratory techniques and stable isotope methodologies.
- Contribute to research publications, manuscript preparation, and collaborative projects.
Application Process
Applicants should submit their application materials by email to Tiffiny Tung at Vanderbilt University. The email subject line should include “BSIRL Post-doc at VU”.
Required documents:
- Current CV
- One-page cover letter describing relevant experience and research interests
- Writing sample, such as an article or dissertation chapter
- Contact details for three professional references
Important Dates
- Posted: 8 July 2026
- Application Deadline: Open until filled (no official closing date provided)
- Expected Start Date: Immediately or preferred by August 2026
Researchers interested in bioarchaeology and stable isotope research should submit their complete application materials early for consideration. Click Apply Now to view the full position details and application instructions.
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Institutional Overview
Vanderbilt University is a private research university in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. Founded in 1873, it is recognised for research across the humanities, sciences, engineering, education, law, and medicine. The university promotes interdisciplinary scholarship through its academic departments, research centres, and collaborative programmes. Its Department of Anthropology undertakes research in archaeology, biological anthropology, and human societies, integrating laboratory techniques with field investigations. Vanderbilt provides an excellent academic environment for researchers working in bioarchaeology, archaeological science, and human history while encouraging collaboration across a wide range of disciplines.
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