About the Program
Leiden University’s Faculty of Archaeology is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on exploring social hierarchies in late prehistoric societies. As part of the prestigious ERC-funded project Inequal Cyprus, this research will investigate how figurative objects—such as pendants, figurines, and ceramic vessels—expressed and shaped social structures between 4000 and 1700 BCE. The successful candidate will join an international, collaborative research environment, working closely with leading experts and participating in museum and fieldwork activities. This is a unique opportunity for motivated students passionate about prehistoric archaeology, material culture, and the development of social inequality to gain advanced training and contribute to groundbreaking research.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Leiden University
- Department/Faculty: Faculty of Archaeology, Department of World Archaeology
- Supervisor: Professor Bleda Düring and Dr Aris Politopoulos
- Location: Leiden, The Netherlands
- Start Date (Anticipated): November 2025 (flexible)
- Duration: 4 years (initial 1-year contract with a 3-year extension)
- Funding: Fully funded; Dutch PhD salary (€2,901–€3,707 gross/month), 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus; possible tax benefits for non-Dutch candidates
- Working Hours: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree in Archaeology (completed by start date)
Research Focus/Area
- Social hierarchies and inequalities in late prehistoric societies
- Figurative archaeology and material culture analysis
- Quantitative and contextual archaeological approaches
- Chalcolithic to Bronze Age social transformations
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Archaeology
- Excellent command of English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in prehistoric archaeology or figurative studies
- Strong academic record and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research
- Willingness to conduct fieldwork and travel internationally
- Strong organisational, analytical, and communication skills
Key Features of the Program
- Personalised PhD training and supervision plan
- Dynamic, international research team and environment
- Funding for conferences and field research
- Access to extensive institutional resources and networks
- Opportunities to collaborate with museums and research partners abroad
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application via the Leiden University SuccessFactors portal.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (max 1 page)
- Curriculum vitae (including publication list)
- Writing sample (postgraduate thesis or publication)
- Names and contact details of two referees (no letters required at this stage)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 1 July 2025
- Deadline: 1 August 2025
- Interviews: Late August or September 2025
Where to Apply
- University Website: Leiden University Archaeology
- Official Notification: PhD Candidate: Figuring Out Hierarchies in Late Prehistoric – Leiden University
- Application Portal: Apply Here
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