About the Position
Maastricht University invites applications for a fully funded postdoctoral research position in Geoarchaeology, Geochemistry, or Ceramic Petrography at the Faculty of Science and Engineering, based in Maastricht, Netherlands. This 18-month academic position focuses on advancing scientific understanding of the earliest roofing tile tradition in mainland Greece through interdisciplinary archaeological science. The role is embedded within the Maastricht Science Programme (MSP), an international and research-driven academic environment.
The successful candidate will investigate Early Helladic (ca. 3100–2000 BCE) schist or ceramic roofing tiles from mainland Greece. You will identify raw materials, reconstruct production techniques, and determine likely quarry or clay sources through laboratory and field-based analytical research in Maastricht and Greece. Moreover, you will collaborate closely with the Principal Investigator, publish Open Access research outputs, and contribute to teaching activities. This position may extend to 24 months if qualified to tutor introductory chemistry courses.
The salary ranges from €4,728 to €6,433 gross per month (full-time, 38 hours), plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus. Maastricht University offers 29 vacation days, flexible working conditions, pension benefits, and a dynamic research environment in the Netherlands. This opportunity is ideal for researchers aiming to strengthen their profile in archaeological science, geoarchaeology, and material analysis within Europe.
Program / Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Institution: Maastricht University, Netherlands
- Department: Maastricht Science Programme (Faculty of Science & Engineering)
- Research Field: Geoarchaeology / Geochemistry / Ceramic Petrography
- Supervisor: Principal Investigator (Maastricht Science Programme)
- Location: Maastricht, Netherlands (with fieldwork in Greece)
- Number of Positions: 1
- Job Type: Full-time Academic Postdoc (0.8–1.0 FTE)
- Start Date: 2026 (as agreed)
- Working Hours: 38 hours per week
- Salary / Funding: €4,728–€6,433 gross per month + benefits
Research Area
- Early Helladic (EH) roofing tile traditions (3100–2000 BCE)
- Stone sourcing and quarry identification
- Ceramic petrography and clay paste reconstruction
- Geochemical and mineralogical analysis
- Archaeological science and material characterisation
This project strengthens scientific knowledge of ancient construction technologies while integrating fieldwork, laboratory research, and interdisciplinary collaboration across Europe.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- PhD in Archaeology, Geoarchaeology, Geology, Geochemistry, or a related Discipline (completed before appointment)
- Demonstrated expertise in laboratory and field-based analytical techniques
- Excellent written and spoken English
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with stone or ceramic material analysis
- Publication record in archaeological science or geochemical research
- Ability to tutor archaeology, research skills, or introductory chemistry
- Strong interdisciplinary collaboration skills
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct laboratory and field research in the Netherlands and Greece
- Identify raw materials and reconstruct the production techniques of EH roofing tiles
- Apply for research permits related to archaeological materials
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed Open Access journals
- Tutor courses in archaeology, research methods, and possibly chemistry
- Contribute to collaborative funding and research initiatives
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through Maastricht University’s official recruitment portal.
Required Documents
- Cover letter (including laboratory and field experience, max 4 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Writing sample
- Contact details of two referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently Open
- Application Deadline: 13 March 2026
- Interview Dates: To be announced (shortlisted candidates will be contacted)
- Expected Start: 2026 (as agreed with the Faculty of Science and Engineering, Maastricht University, Netherlands)
Useful Links
- Official Institution Website: Maastricht University
- Job Announcement: Postdoctoral Research position in Geoarchaeology
- Apply Here: Official Application Page
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