About the Program
Queen’s University Belfast invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Taphonomy and Sedimentary aDNA titled “Taphonomy and Scale Resolution for Sedimentary aDNA: Understanding Landscape Change and Catchment Ecologies in Multi-Period Landscapes” at the School of Natural and Built Environment. This doctoral position focuses on analysing depositional and taphonomic processes controlling environmental DNA (sedaDNA) in lake sediments and catchments, addressing methodological challenges in palaeoecology and landscape reconstruction.
The project will be supervised by Dr Patrick Gleeson and aligns with the research theme of multi-proxy palaeoecology and landscape change analysis. The research duration is 3 years, based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, with an expected start date of October 2026. The studentship offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced bioinformatics and sequencing training, fieldwork, and professional academic development.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Queen’s University Belfast
- Department/Faculty: School of Natural and Built Environment
- Supervisor: Dr Patrick Gleeson
- Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Start Date (Anticipated): October 2026
- Duration: 3 years
- Funding: Fully funded by DfE, including fees and annual stipend (£20,780 for 2025/26)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (2:1 or higher) in Archaeology, Palaeoecology, or a cognate discipline with experience in aDNA analysis or palaeoecological methods
Research Focus / Area
- Sedimentary aDNA (sedaDNA)
- Taphonomy and depositional processes
- Multi-period landscape and catchment analysis
- Bioinformatics and sequencing
- Lake and terrestrial sediment analysis
- Palaeoecology and environmental reconstruction
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Strong upper second class (2:1) honours degree or equivalent in Archaeology or related field
- Experience with aDNA or palaeoecological analysis
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in sedimentary DNA or bioinformatics
- Knowledge of sequencing techniques and multi-proxy palaeoecology
- Strong academic record and ability to work independently
Key Features of the Program
- Interdisciplinary research combining archaeology, palaeoecology, and bioinformatics
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratory and sequencing facilities
- International research collaborations across QUB, Cardiff, and Newcastle
- Conference and travel funding for professional development
- Hands-on experience in fieldwork, sediment coring, and landscape analysis
Application Process
How to Apply:
- Apply via the Queen’s University Belfast Application Portal: https://go.qub.ac.uk/pgapply
- Apply for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Archaeology & Palaeoecology
- State Dr Patrick Gleeson as lead supervisor
- Indicate funding source as DfE
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Covering letter outlining relevant experience and research interest
- Transcripts and award certificates for all qualifications
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 30 January 2026
- Interviews (if applicable): To be confirmed
Where to Apply
- University Website: Queen’s University Belfast
- Official Notification: School of Natural and Built Environment – PhD Opportunities
- Application Portal: Apply Now
Click here for more PhD opportunities
