About the Program
The University of Gothenburg invites applications for a fully-funded PhD in Classical Archaeology & Ancient History titled “Doctoral Student in Classical Archaeology & Ancient History” at the Department of Historical Studies, Faculty of Humanities. This doctoral position focuses on exploring social and political changes in ancient Mediterranean societies, particularly within Greek and Roman cultures from prehistory to Late Antiquity. The project will be supervised by Professor Ida Östenberg and aligns with the department’s interdisciplinary research theme, combining archaeological, textual, and visual evidence. The research duration is four years and is based in Gothenburg, Sweden, with an expected start date of September 2026. The project provides opportunities for international collaboration, fieldwork, archival research, and professional academic development within a dynamic and supportive research environment.
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Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Gothenburg
- Department/Faculty: Department of Historical Studies, Faculty of Humanities
- Supervisor: Professor Ida Östenberg
- Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
- Start Date (Anticipated): September 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Fully-funded PhD position with local salary agreement for doctoral students
- Working Hours: Full-time (100%)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s
Research Focus/Area
- Classical Archaeology – study of Greek and Roman material culture, architecture, and artefacts
- Ancient History – social, political, and cultural developments in the ancient Mediterranean
- Interdisciplinary Methods – combining textual, visual, and archaeological evidence
- Fieldwork and Archival Research – excavation experience, museum collections, and historical archives
- Mediterranean Societies – focus on prehistory to Late Antiquity, especially Greek and Roman cultures
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Classical Archaeology, Ancient History, or related disciplines
- At least 120 HEC in Classical Archaeology & Ancient History or equivalent qualifications
- Proficiency in English and Swedish sufficient to participate in courses, seminars, and departmental activities
Preferred Qualifications:
- Previous research experience in Classical Archaeology or Ancient History
- Strong academic record with relevant publications or thesis work
- Familiarity with interdisciplinary methods, archaeological fieldwork, and archival research
Research Focus/Area
- Classical Archaeology
- Ancient History
- Greek and Roman cultures
- Social and political changes in ancient Mediterranean societies
- Interdisciplinary research methodologies (archaeological, textual, visual evidence)
Key Features of the Program
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration within the department
- Access to international research networks and resources
- Potential for conference participation and academic travel funding
- Training in independent research, scholarly writing, and professional academic skills
- Fieldwork and archival research opportunities
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applicants must submit their application via the University of Gothenburg recruitment portal. Ensure that all documents are complete and submitted in PDF format.
Required Documents:
- Cover letter (maximum 1000 words) with sections: personal introduction, academic merits, research project summary, and motivation
- CV including publications and contact details of two references
- Second-cycle thesis or other major independently authored scholarly work
- Detailed research project description (maximum 3000 words)
- Verified copies of academic transcripts and relevant qualifications
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 29 January 2026
- Interviews: To be announced
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Gothenburg
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Apply Online
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