About the PhD Position
Leiden University invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD in Zooarchaeology and Biomolecular Archaeology within the Faculty of Archaeology at Leiden, Netherlands. This innovative doctoral research project focuses on reconstructing complex human-wildlife relationships during the Mesolithic-Neolithic period and contributes to ongoing scholarship in prehistoric archaeology, environmental archaeology, and biodiversity studies. The position will be supervised by Dr Nathalie Brusgaard and is part of the ERC-funded project WILDERFARM, which explores the interaction between early farming, wildlife management, and landscape transformation in Western Europe.
The PhD position is funded for four years and offers a monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881 gross under the Dutch Universities CLA. The research will involve detailed zooarchaeological data collection, stable isotope and proteomics analyses, taphonomic studies, and integration with archaeobotanical, palaeogenomic, and environmental datasets across multiple archaeological sites. Candidates will also engage in scientific outreach, workshops, interdisciplinary collaboration, and dissemination activities, ensuring a strong societal and academic impact.
This programme provides structured doctoral training, access to cutting-edge laboratories, research infrastructure, and computational tools, and offers international networking opportunities within a dynamic and multidisciplinary research environment. It is particularly suitable for candidates with a background in archaeology, anthropology, (paleo)ecology, wildlife studies, or related disciplines who aim to pursue high-level academic, research, or postdoctoral careers in prehistoric, environmental, and conservation archaeology. The project also encourages applicants interested in human-animal interactions, Mesolithic-Neolithic transitions, sustainable practices, and advanced biomolecular techniques.
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Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Zooarchaeology of Human-Wildlife Relationships
- Position type: PhD
- Institution: Leiden University, Netherlands
- Department: Faculty of Archaeology
- Research Group: ERC-funded WILDERFARM Project
- Supervisor: Dr Nathalie Brusgaard
- Location: Leiden, Netherlands
- Duration: 4 years, full-time (38 hours/week)
- Start Date: Flexible / 2026
- Funding: Gross monthly salary €3,059–€3,881 under Dutch Universities CLA
- Number of Positions: 1
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s in archaeology, anthropology, (paleo)ecology, or related field
Explore fully funded research positions and academic opportunities at Leiden University, the Netherlands, and take your research career to the next level.
Research Focus
- Human-wildlife interactions during Mesolithic-Neolithic transitions
- Analysis of wild and domestic animal remains using zooarchaeology
- Stable isotope and proteomics techniques for dietary reconstruction
- Integration with archaeobotanical and palaeogenomic datasets
- Contribution to conservation education and public outreach
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree completed in archaeology, anthropology, (paleo)ecology, or related field
- Research experience in zooarchaeology or biomolecular archaeology
- Strong research, writing, and communication skills
- Excellent command of English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Interest in Mesolithic/Neolithic archaeology, agriculture, or biodiversity
- Knowledge of European languages
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an international research team
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Key Responsibilities
- Collate zooarchaeological data from the study region
- Conduct stable isotope and proteomics analyses of wild and domestic animals
- Integrate findings with other project datasets (archaeobotanical, palaeogenomic)
- Publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences
- Produce a PhD dissertation within 4 years
- Contribute to workshops, outreach, and Faculty community events
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages)
- Curriculum vitae
- Writing sample (thesis or publication)
- Contact details of one referee
Important Dates:
- Application Open: Now
- Application Deadline: 3 May 2026
- Interviews: Late May – Early June (online)
- Expected Start Date: Flexible / 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: Leiden University
- Department Information: Faculty of Archaeology
- Official Job Announcement: PhD position in zooarchaeology of human-wildlife relationships
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: n.o.brusgaard@arch.leidenuniv.nl
- HR Email: HR@arch.leidenuniv.nl
This fully funded PhD position offers international scholars a unique opportunity for research funding, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced training at Leiden University in the Netherlands.
Explore fully funded PhD programmes, scholarships, and global academic opportunities for early-career researchers seeking international study, research funding, interdisciplinary training, career development, and access to top universities worldwide.
