About the Position
The University of Oxford invites applications for a fully funded Postdoctoral Research Associate position in palynology at the Institute of Archaeology, located in Oxford, UK. This exciting academic opportunity focuses on transforming our understanding of medieval farming’s impact on biodiversity. It contributes directly to international research initiatives within the ERC-funded MEMELAND project.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively within a team supervised by Professor Helena Hamerow. You will undertake independent research using excellent palynological analysis and interpretation skills. Access to a vibrant research environment and guidance from experienced archaeologists ensures a productive setting for high-impact publications. Moreover, this role supports professional development through collaboration with five European institutions. Consequently, you will help reveal plants and animals normally invisible in the archaeological record.
Applicants must hold a PhD in a relevant field and demonstrate strong experience in palynological analysis and interpretation. Preferred skills include a proven ability to write for publication and present research proposals. Therefore, proven interdisciplinary collaboration, excellent communication, and teamwork skills are essential. This is a full-time, fixed-term Postdoctoral position for 3.5 years, starting as soon as possible after interview.
The appointment offers a competitive salary of £39,424 – £47,779 p.a. You will also gain opportunities for conference participation and international research collaboration. In addition, this globally recognised research environment supports career advancement.
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Position/ Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate (Palynologist)
- Institution: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department: Institute of Archaeology, School of Archaeology
- Research Field: Palynology / Environmental Archaeology / Medieval Landscapes
- Supervisor: Professor Helena Hamerow
- Location: 36 Beaumont Street, Oxford
- Country: United Kingdom
- Job Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral, Fixed-term
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: After interviews (expected late May/early June 2026)
- Working Hours: 1.0 FTE (37.5 hours per week approx.)
- Salary / Funding: £39,424 – £47,779 p.a. (Grade 7)
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in relevant field (palynology, archaeology, environmental science)
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Research Area
- Medieval farming and biodiversity change
- Molecular ecology of European landscapes
- Palynological analysis and interpretation
- Environmental archaeology and ecosystem reconstruction
- Plant and animal visibility in archaeological records
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- A completed PhD in palynology, environmental archaeology, or a closely related field.
- Excellent palynological analysis and interpretation skills.
- Demonstrated ability to write for publication and present research proposals.
- Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
- Proven ability to manage and prioritise a busy academic workload.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working within collaborative, international research teams.
- Familiarity with medieval European landscapes or farming systems.
- Knowledge of molecular ecology approaches is an advantage.
- Strong communication skills for internal and external meetings.
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct palynological analysis on samples from medieval European landscapes.
- Interpret pollen data to reveal biodiversity changes from medieval farming.
- Collaborate closely with the MEMELAND team across five partner institutions.
- Represent the research group at internal and external academic meetings.
- Write research outputs for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
- Support the wider academic mission of Professor Helena Hamerow’s research group.
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents through the official portal as listed below.
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in PDF format
- Supporting Statement in PDF format
- PhD certificate
- Publication list
- Contact details of two academic referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 14 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 12:00 noon (UK time), Monday, 11 May 2026
- Interview Period: Week commencing last week of May 2026
- Expected Start Date: Shortly after interviews (June/July 2026)
Where to Apply
- University of Oxford Website: University of Oxford
- Department / Research Group Information: School of Archaeology
- Official Job Announcement: Postdoctoral Research Associate MEMELAND (Palynologist) – Vacancy ID 185655
- Application Portal: University of Oxford e-recruitment system (search Vacancy ID 185655)
Contact for Queries
- Email: hr@arch.ox.ac.uk
- Phone: Not available for informal enquiries (email only)
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research positions, international academic collaboration, and advanced research opportunities in environmental archaeology at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.
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