About the Position
Durham University invites applications for a funded Postdoctoral Research Associate (Archaeology) position in bioarchaeology at the Department of Archaeology, located in Durham, United Kingdom. This short-term but high-impact academic opportunity focuses on infant skeletal analysis and the development of digital learning resources for archaeological and forensic science training. It contributes directly to international research initiatives in bioarchaeology, human osteology, and applied archaeological science.
The successful candidate will collaborate closely with the Department of Archaeology research team under leading experts in the field. Moreover, they will work on transforming existing datasets and skeletal materials into accessible digital resources for professional development. In addition, the role requires engagement with interdisciplinary colleagues, ensuring high-quality outputs for both academic and practitioner communities.
Applicants must hold a PhD in Bioarchaeology or Forensic Anthropology, or be near completion at the time of appointment. Strong experience in infant skeletal analysis is essential, alongside the ability to communicate complex archaeological data clearly. Furthermore, desirable skills include digital resource development, dataset handling, and familiarity with multimedia tools such as Photoshop or equivalent platforms for research dissemination.
This is a full-time, fixed-term Postdoctoral Research Associate position for 3 months at full-time (or 6 months at 0.5 FTE), starting ideally by July 2026. The role offers competitive academic exposure, research collaboration opportunities, and professional development within a globally recognised research environment. Importantly, it also strengthens career progression in archaeology, forensic anthropology, and digital heritage education.
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Position/ Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate (Archaeology)
- Institution: Durham University, United Kingdom
- Department: Department of Archaeology
- Research Field: Bioarchaeology / Forensic Anthropology
- Supervisor: Dr Claire Hodson & Prof Rebecca Gowland
- Location: Durham
- Country: UK
- Job Type: Postdoctoral / Fixed-term Research Role
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: July 2026 (preferred)
- Working Hours: 35 hours per week (1 FTE)
- Salary / Funding: Grade 7 – £38,784 to £46,049 per annum
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in Bioarchaeology or related field
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Research Area
- Bioarchaeology
- Infant skeletal analysis
- Forensic anthropology
- Digital archaeology resources
- Human osteology
- Archaeological science communication
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- PhD in Bioarchaeology, Archaeology, or Forensic Anthropology
- Experience in human skeletal analysis (especially infants)
- Strong academic research background
- Ability to communicate complex scientific information clearly
- Experience working in collaborative research environments
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with digital datasets and resource creation
- Publication record in high-ranking journals
- Conference presentation experience
- Skills in multimedia tools (e.g., Photoshop or equivalents)
- Ability to design educational or training materials
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct collaborative and independent research under PI guidance
- Develop digital learning resources for archaeological professionals
- Analyse infant skeletal remains from archaeological contexts
- Communicate technical research to academic and practitioner audiences
- Contribute to research design and methodological development
- Populate project website with curated academic resources
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents through the official Durham University recruitment portal. Candidates must clearly demonstrate how they meet essential criteria.
Required Documents
- CV (academic and research-focused)
- Cover letter addressing essential criteria
- Evidence of research experience
- Publication list (if applicable)
- References (academic or professional)
- Proof of PhD status or submission stage
- Supporting documents for digital or technical skills
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026 (04:29 AM)
- Interview Period: Post-shortlisting (as scheduled by department)
- Expected Start Date: July 2026
Where to Apply
- University/Institution: Durham University
- Department: Archaeology Department – Durham University
- Job ID: 26000302
Official Information
- Source: Durham University Careers Portal
- Apply Link: Job Description – Postdoctoral Research Associate (Archaeology) (26000302)
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking funded postdoctoral research roles, international academic collaboration, and advanced research opportunities in bioarchaeology and forensic archaeology at Durham University, UK.
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