The University of Glasgow is inviting a Geoarchaeology/Palaeoecology Technician to join the UKRI-funded Rapid Engagement with Stressed Peatland Environments and Communities in Transformation (RESPECT) project. This full-time academic position is designed for candidates with expertise in geoarchaeology, palaeoecology, environmental science, and peatland research.
The postholder will provide technical support for fieldwork, laboratory investigations, and environmental data analysis. Working with researchers from several UK universities, they will help study peatland landscapes, environmental history, and land management through geoarchaeological and palaeoecological research.
The role includes organising field surveys, collecting peat cores, carrying out laboratory analyses, preparing GIS maps, analysing environmental data, and managing technical equipment and laboratory resources. The successful candidate will also assist with technical procedures, support research activities, and ensure laboratory work meets health and safety requirements.
The position is based within Work Package 1 – Peatlands through Time and Space, which examines past environmental change to inform peatland restoration and future land management. The technician will work with researchers from archaeology, environmental science, earth sciences, and law to support research on peatland conservation and the UK’s transition towards net-zero emissions.
Position Details
- Position: Technician Job – Geoarchaeology and Palaeoecology Research
- Institution: University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Department: Archaeology, Earth Sciences and Environmental Sciences
- Focus Discipline: Geoarchaeology, Palaeoecology, Archaeological Science, Environmental Science, Earth Sciences
- Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Technical Research Position (Full-time)
- Contract Duration: Open-ended with funding available until 31 March 2028
- Start Date: August 2026 (anticipated)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary/Funding: Grade 6, £33,951–£37,694 per annum (UKRI-funded)
- Required Qualification: SCQF Level 8 qualification or equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline
Research Focus
This position supports interdisciplinary research in the following areas:
- Geoarchaeology and Palaeoecology
- Archaeological and Earth Sciences
- Environmental Science and Environmental Change
- Peatland Research and Restoration
- Landscape Archaeology
- GIS and Spatial Analysis
- Carbon Cycling and Land Management
Eligibility Criteria and Required Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- SCQF Level 8 qualification or equivalent in a relevant scientific discipline.
- Demonstrated technical knowledge of geoarchaeology or palaeoecology within archaeological, earth science, or environmental science research.
- Experience with geoarchaeological field survey and environmental sampling techniques.
- Practical experience using QGIS and ArcGIS software.
- Knowledge of laboratory and field health and safety legislation.
- Experience with laboratory techniques including sediment analysis, Loss on Ignition (LOI), pollen analysis, pXRF, and radiocarbon sampling.
- Strong analytical, organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.
- Valid driving licence.
- Experience with R or Python programming is desirable.
Key Responsibilities of the Technician Role
The successful candidate will:
- Lead geoarchaeological and palaeoecological field investigations, including peat coring and environmental sampling.
- Deliver specialist laboratory analyses and interpret geoarchaeological and environmental datasets.
- Manage technical laboratories, equipment, and research resources supporting the project.
- Produce GIS mapping, stratigraphic records, technical reports, and research documentation.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams across participating universities.
- Maintain laboratory quality standards while ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
Why Apply for This UKRI-Funded Research Position?
This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a major UKRI-funded research programme investigating peatland environments, landscape history, and environmental change. The successful applicant will work alongside specialists in archaeology, environmental science, earth sciences, and law while developing technical expertise through collaborative fieldwork, laboratory research, and interdisciplinary environmental projects with national significance.
Application Process and Required Documents
Applications should be submitted through the University of Glasgow’s online recruitment system before the published closing date. Candidates should ensure all requested information is complete before submitting their application.
Required documents include:
- Completed online application form
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supporting statement
- Any additional documents requested through the recruitment portal
Important Dates and Deadline
- Applications Open: 25 June 2026
- Application Deadline: 16 July 2026, 23:45 BST
- Interview Period: TBC
- Expected Start Date: August 2026
Applications for this UKRI-funded research opportunity close on 16 July 2026 at 23:45 BST. Eligible candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline to ensure consideration.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Geoarchaeology Research Jobs and PhD Positions
- Palaeoecology and Palaeoclimate Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Geosciences Research and Academic Vacancies
- UK University Lecturer and Research Jobs
- Academic Jobs and Research Opportunities
Institutional Overview
The University of Glasgow is one of the United Kingdom’s leading research-intensive universities, recognised internationally for excellence in archaeology, environmental science, engineering, medicine, and the humanities. The University supports interdisciplinary research addressing climate change, sustainability, biodiversity, and global environmental challenges through collaboration across academic disciplines. Researchers benefit from modern facilities, international partnerships, inclusive working practices, and strong professional development opportunities. Its commitment to high-quality research and innovation continues to attract talented researchers from around the world while contributing impactful discoveries across science, society, and environmental sustainability.
Looking for more academic jobs in the UK, research technician vacancies, environmental science jobs, and university research opportunities? Explore related opportunities on HigherJobz to discover the latest openings from leading universities and research institutions worldwide.
