A predoctoral researcher position is open at the University of Alcalá under the MULTIPALEOIBERIA project funded by Horizon Europe ERC Starting Grants, starting in June 2026. The work focuses on Upper Palaeolithic archaeology in Spain, especially lithic technology and Solutrean stone tool studies from Peña Capón. It supports research on Neanderthal and modern human interaction in inland Iberia through archaeological fieldwork and analysis.
The position is based in the Department of History and Philosophy at the Faculty of Philosophy and Letters. It connects prehistoric archaeology research with lithic analysis and human evolution studies. The researcher will take part in excavation work, study stone tools, and help publish academic results. The work combines field archaeology with lab-based study of Upper Palaeolithic artefacts from Iberian sites.
The role includes detailed study of lithic assemblages based on technological and typological analysis. Fieldwork at Peña Capón is part of the role, along with recording excavation data and analysing finds. The researcher will also write research papers, present work at conferences, and work with a team studying human evolution and prehistoric cultures. The focus remains on clear analysis of archaeological evidence from Solutrean contexts.
The contract lasts one year and is funded under ERC-2018-STG-805478. Applications close on 22 June 2026. Applicants need a Master’s degree in archaeology or a related field, with experience in lithic analysis and Upper Palaeolithic research. Good English and Spanish skills are required for field and research work. Applications must be submitted through the official portal with full documents.
Position Details
- Position: Predoctoral Researcher in Palaeolithic Archaeology and Lithic Technology
- Institution: Universidad de Alcalá (University of Alcalá)
- Department: Department of History and Philosophy, Faculty of Philosophy and Letters
- Research Discipline: Archaeology / Palaeolithic Archaeology / Lithic Technology
- Location: Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Job Type: Predoctoral Researcher (R1)
- Contract Duration: 1 year
- Start Date: June 2026
- Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week
- Salary/Funding: Horizon Europe – ERC Starting Grant (ERC-2018-STG-805478)
- Required Qualification: Master’s degree or equivalent in Archaeology or related field
Positions at Universidad de Alcalá are open to candidates with relevant academic training in archaeology and related research areas, depending on project needs.
Research Area
- Upper Palaeolithic archaeology
- Lithic technology and typological analysis
- Solutrean cultural studies in Iberia
- Neanderthal and modern human interaction
- Archaeological fieldwork and excavation research
Eligibility / Qualifications
- Master’s degree or equivalent in Archaeology or related discipline
- Knowledge of Upper Palaeolithic archaeological contexts
- Experience in lithic technological analysis methods
- Competence in archaeological interpretation and reporting
- Good command of English and Spanish languages
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct lithic technological and typological analysis of assemblages
- Participate in archaeological excavation fieldwork activities
- Analyse Solutrean archaeological materials from the Peña Capón site
- Prepare scientific publications for peer-reviewed journals
- Present research outcomes at international academic conferences
- Collaborate within interdisciplinary human evolution research teams
Application Process
Applicants must submit their materials through the official research portal of the Universidad de Alcalá before the closing date. The selection process evaluates academic background, research experience, and methodological competence in Palaeolithic archaeology.
Required documents:
- Updated curriculum vitae
- Academic degree certificates
- Motivation letter
- Research experience evidence
- Language proficiency proof (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 14 May 2026
- Application Deadline: 22 June 2026 (23:59 Europe/Madrid)
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Expected Start Date: June 2026
Candidates are encouraged to apply early due to the competitive nature of ERC-funded predoctoral research positions in European archaeology.
Explore More Research Opportunities
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Institutional Overview
The University of Alcalá is a historic Spanish university established in 1499, recognised for advanced research in archaeology, humanities, and human evolution studies. It participates in European Research Council projects focused on prehistoric archaeology, cultural heritage, and lithic technology research. The institution combines heritage-based academic tradition with modern interdisciplinary research environments, supporting international collaboration across Horizon Europe programmes.
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