The Faculty of Archaeology at the University of Warsaw, Poland, invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Bronze Age Crete Pottery and Digital Archaeology. Funded through the NCN SONATA BIS-15 project “Networks of the Dead”, the doctoral scholarship will begin in November 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
The PhD researcher will study pottery from funerary contexts in Prepalatial and Protopalatial Crete, contributing to research on Bronze Age Crete, Aegean archaeology, and digital archaeological methods. The project examines how mortuary practices, social interactions, and material culture shaped collective identities among ancient communities.
The successful candidate will analyse pottery evidence, contribute to archaeological databases, and help reconstruct material culture networks. The research will combine traditional archaeological approaches with digital methods, including Social Network Analysis, to investigate relationships between burial communities across Early and Middle Bronze Age Crete.
This doctoral position provides training in interdisciplinary archaeology, opportunities for field research in Crete, and involvement in international academic activities, including conferences and publications.
Programme Overview
- Position: PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Warsaw, Poland
- Department: Department of Aegean and Textile Archaeology, Faculty of Archaeology
- Research Group: Networks of the Dead Project
- Supervisor: Dr Sylviane Dederix, Project Leader
- Location: Warsaw, Poland
- Duration: 48 months
- Start Date: 1 November 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
- Funding: Doctoral scholarship of 4,346 PLN gross before mid-term evaluation and 5,500.50 PLN gross after evaluation under NCN SONATA BIS-15
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree in Archaeology or a related discipline
About the Networks of the Dead Project
The NCN SONATA BIS-15 funded project “Networks of the Dead”, led by Dr Sylviane Dederix, examines mortuary practices, social interactions, and collective identities in Early and Middle Bronze Age Crete (3100–1700 BC). The project explores relationships between burial communities before, during, and after the emergence of the First Minoan Palaces.
It combines evidence from funerary activities, pottery, seals, petrographic data, and burial locations to reconstruct patterns of interaction. Using Social Network Analysis, the research investigates social change in ancient Crete, with the PhD researcher contributing through pottery studies, database development, and digital archaeological methods.
Research Focus
This fully funded PhD in Archaeology focuses on Bronze Age Crete, exploring funerary practices, pottery analysis, and digital approaches to understand ancient social networks and identities. The doctoral research will focus on:
- Bronze Age Crete and Aegean archaeology, particularly Prepalatial and Protopalatial funerary contexts.
- Pottery studies and material culture analysis to identify connections between burial communities.
- Digital archaeology and Social Network Analysis to reconstruct patterns of interaction and community relationships.
Eligibility / Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Archaeology or a related discipline before the project start date.
- Confirmed PhD student status or willingness to enrol at the University of Warsaw Doctoral School.
- Strong academic record with fluency in written and spoken English.
- Basic database skills and ability to work independently within an international research team.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience or interest in pottery studies, Aegean archaeology, and Prepalatial or Protopalatial Crete.
- Interest or experience in digital archaeology and related research methods.
- Knowledge of additional languages, including Greek, Polish, German, Italian, or French.
Key Responsibilities
The PhD student will contribute to:
- Conducting bibliographic reviews and supporting project documentation.
- Developing the project website and database structure.
- Recording pottery variables in the project database.
- Defining pottery classes for interaction analysis.
- Participating in annual research campaigns in Crete.
- Presenting findings through conferences, publications, and the final monograph.
Funding and Benefits
The University of Warsaw provides a doctoral scholarship covering the complete four-year research period. The selected candidate will receive:
- A monthly scholarship of 4,346 PLN gross before the mid-term evaluation and 5,500.50 PLN gross after the evaluation.
- Funding support for research trips, conference participation, and academic development through research activities and publications.
- Training in digital archaeology and network analysis.
- Access to equipped office facilities at the Faculty of Archaeology.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their application materials by email to the project leader before the deadline. The selection process includes an online interview for shortlisted candidates.
Required documents include:
- Cover letter describing relevant experience and research interests.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Two recommendation letters.
- Copy of MA degree or MA defence confirmation.
- Confirmation of PhD student status before starting the position.
- Signed personal data processing statement.
Why This Opportunity Matters
This PhD offers an opportunity to work at the intersection of:
- Bronze Age archaeology
- Aegean material culture studies
- Digital archaeological methods
- Social network analysis
It provides advanced research training, international collaboration, and opportunities to contribute to academic publications within an interdisciplinary archaeological project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this PhD in Archaeology fully funded?
Yes, the position includes a doctoral scholarship for 48 months under the NCN SONATA BIS-15 project.
What is the research topic of this PhD?
The research focuses on pottery from funerary contexts in Prepalatial and Protopalatial Crete.
Where is the PhD position located?
The position is based at the Faculty of Archaeology, University of Warsaw, Poland.
What is the duration of the PhD scholarship?
The doctoral scholarship is provided for 48 months, covering the full four-year research period.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: June 2026
- Application Deadline: 10 August 2026
- Interview Period: 17–21 August 2026
- Results Announcement: 24 August 2026
- Expected Start Date: November 2026
Apply Now to explore the full details of this fully funded PhD opportunity in Archaeology, including eligibility, funding, benefits, and application requirements.
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Institutional Overview
The University of Warsaw is a leading research institution in Poland, offering advanced education and conducting research across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary fields. Established in 1816, the university supports international collaboration and academic innovation through its research centres, faculties, and doctoral programmes. The Faculty of Archaeology at the University of Warsaw conducts research on past societies, cultural heritage, and archaeological methods, providing an environment for scholars working across different historical periods and regions. The university welcomes researchers from around the world and promotes collaboration through international academic networks and research projects.
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