Fully Funded PhD in Artefact Analysis | University of Cambridge

About the Program

The University of Cambridge invites applications for a PhD Studentship (Fixed Term) in Metal Artefact Analysis within the project “Towards full object analysis of precious metal artefacts.” Based in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy, this project is part of the Structural Materials Group under the supervision of Dr David Collins. The four-year, fully funded position offers a stipend of £20,780 per annum and focuses on uncovering the hidden chemical and structural signatures of precious silver artefacts. In collaboration with the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office in London, this interdisciplinary research combines advanced materials characterisation techniques with computational tools and neural networks to develop reliable methods for verifying metal authenticity. The project aims to strengthen hallmarking practices through cutting-edge materials science and data-driven innovation.

Program Details

Position: Fully-funded PhD Position
Institution: University of Cambridge
Department/Faculty: Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy
Supervisor: Dr David Collins
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Start Date (Anticipated): October 2026
Duration: 4 years
Funding: Full funding covering tuition fees and a maintenance stipend of £20,780 (current rate)
Working Hours: Full-time
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent)

Research Focus/Area

Precious metal artefact analysis
Materials characterisation and alloy design
Microstructure-property relationships
Phase transformations and advanced processing
Data analytics and neural network algorithms for authentication

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or Archaeology with strong materials analysis experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrated research experience in experimental materials analysis.
Excellent analytical and communication skills.
Motivation and ability to work independently.
Familiarity with techniques such as micro-XRF, synchrotron diffraction, SIMS, or 3D X-ray CT is advantageous.

Key Features of the Program

Training in both computational and experimental analysis methods.
Access to advanced facilities and laboratory resources.
Collaboration with the Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office.
Opportunity to develop robust, defensible datasets for authenticity verification.
Inclusive research environment supporting equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit your application via the University of Cambridge application portal by selecting the “Apply” button on the official listing.

Required Documents:

Short research statement (maximum 1 page) describing your past research, future goals, and suitability for the position.
Curriculum vitae (CV).
Publication list (if available).
Contact details of two referees.