Kiel University invites applications for a fixed-term Postdoctoral (postdoc) Researcher in Statistical Modelling and Computational Archaeology within the Institute of Prehistory and Protohistory, based in Kiel, Germany. This position is offered under the ESTER research project, starting on 1 September 2026, for 48 months at 80% employment.
The role focuses on hierarchical Bayesian modelling, computational archaeology, and statistical reconstruction of prehistoric population dynamics. Moreover, the successful candidate will implement probabilistic models using R and Python, while working on MCMC simulations and uncertainty quantification. In addition, you will collaborate closely with interdisciplinary researchers to translate archaeological and paleoenvironmental data into robust statistical frameworks.
The position is closely linked to the ESTER project research environment, enabling access to large-scale archaeological datasets and high-performance computing infrastructure. Therefore, candidates will engage in HPC workflows, parallel computing, and scalable model implementation. This setting supports advanced computational modelling and interdisciplinary research integration.
Applicants should hold a Master’s or PhD in statistics, computer science, data science, computational archaeology, or a related discipline. Furthermore, strong experience in Bayesian methods, hierarchical modelling, and scientific publishing is essential. Experience in HPC, simulation, and probabilistic programming is highly desirable for this competitive research role.
This is an 80% fixed-term postdoctoral position funded under the ESTER project, offering a salary according to E13 TV-L (subject to eligibility). Consequently, it provides a strong opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge archaeological modelling and international research collaboration in a leading European university.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher in Statistical Modelling and Computational Archaeology
- Institution: Kiel University, Germany
- Department: Institute of Prehistory and Protohistory
- Research Field: Computational Archaeology, Statistical Modelling, Bayesian Inference
- Location: Kiel, Germany
- Job Type: Postdoctoral / Fixed-term (48 months)
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: September 2026
- Working Hours: 30.96 hours per week (80%)
- Salary / Funding: E13 TV-L (if eligible)
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s or PhD in a relevant computational or statistical field
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Research Area
- Hierarchical Bayesian modelling in archaeology
- Computational archaeology and data-driven reconstruction
- MCMC simulations and probabilistic programming
- High-performance computing (HPC) and parallel processing
- Archaeological and paleoenvironmental data integration
- Uncertainty modelling in historical population studies
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s or PhD in statistics, data science, computer science, computational archaeology, or related field
- Strong knowledge of statistical modelling and Bayesian approaches
- Experience in R and/or Python programming
- Familiarity with MCMC methods and simulation techniques
- Excellent English communication skills (C1 level equivalent)
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in hierarchical Bayesian modelling
- Knowledge of HPC systems and parallel computing
- Experience in interdisciplinary research environments
- Scientific writing and publication experience
- Ability to translate archaeological problems into computational models
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Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement hierarchical Bayesian models for prehistoric population reconstruction
- Design process and observation models for archaeological datasets
- Work with uncertainty and error modelling in complex datasets
- Optimise computational workflows using HPC systems
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary archaeology and environmental teams
- Analyse model outputs, including posterior distributions and validation results
Application Process
Send your application as a single PDF document by 31 May 2026 to martin.hinz@ufg.uni-kiel.de. Please include all required documents and use the subject line: “ESTER Postdoc 3 Application – [Your Name]”.
Required Documents
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages)
- CV with publication list
- Master’s degree certificate
- PhD certificate (if applicable)
- Academic transcripts (if requested)
- Proof of research experience
- Contact details of referees (if required)
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Important Dates
- Applications Open: Already Open
- Application Deadline: 31 May 2026 (UTC+2)
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Official Information
- University/Institution: Kiel University
- Research Group / Lab: ESTER Project Team
- Job ID: Not specified
- Official Notification: ESTER Postdoctoral Researcher Announcement
Apply early because this is a highly competitive EU-funded research opportunity with strong international collaboration potential. Early application is strongly recommended due to limited positions.
Kiel University stands among Germany’s top research institutions, recognised for cross-disciplinary innovation, advanced computational science, and world-class academic standards. It provides robust research infrastructure, international collaborations, and a highly productive scholarly environment.
This postdoctoral position delivers hands-on experience in Bayesian statistics, computational archaeology, and high-performance computing workflows. It is particularly suited for researchers focused on data-driven archaeology, quantitative modelling, and large-scale historical reconstruction.
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