About the Position
The University of Exeter invites applications for a funded Postdoctoral (Postdoc) Research Associate position in Ancient Disease and Pandemics within the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, located in Exeter, United Kingdom. This exciting academic opportunity focuses on interdisciplinary research into ancient diseases, pandemics, and bioarchaeological evidence, contributing to global research on the early history of smallpox and measles across Afro-Eurasia.
Moreover, the successful candidate will join a Wellcome-funded project led by Professor Rebecca Flemming, working within a dynamic interdisciplinary team. You will develop innovative methodologies combining textual, osteological, and palaeogenetic evidence. Consequently, this approach enables a deeper understanding of disease patterns, interpretations, and responses from the second to the tenth centuries CE.
Applicants must hold a PhD in Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, Archaeological Science, Ancient History, or a related discipline. In addition, strong experience with bioarchaeological or palaeogenetic data is essential. Furthermore, candidates should demonstrate interdisciplinary research skills, critical analysis, and the ability to collaborate across academic fields.
This is a full-time, non-tenure-track Postdoctoral position for four years, starting September 2026, offering a competitive salary and research funding. Additionally, the role provides opportunities for international collaboration, conference participation, and long-term academic career development in a globally recognised research environment.
Browse fully funded archaeology research positions for international scholars seeking global careers and interdisciplinary research opportunities in bioarchaeology, ancient history, and all subjects related to archaeology and sciences.
Position/ Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate / Fellow
- Institution: University of Exeter, United Kingdom
- Department: Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences
- Research Field: Ancient Disease, Pandemics, Bioarchaeology
- Supervisor: Professor Rebecca Flemming
- Location: Exeter
- Country: United Kingdom
- Job Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: September 2026
- Working Hours: 36.5 hours per week
- Salary / Funding: £34,610 (Grade E) – £43,482 (Grade F)
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in a relevant field
Explore the latest fully funded PhD programs, scholarships, postdoctoral positions, and academic jobs in the United Kingdom (UK), including opportunities at the University of Exeter, and advance your research career in interdisciplinary academic fields.
Research Area
- Ancient Disease and Pandemic Studies
- Bioarchaeology and Osteological Analysis
- Palaeogenetics and Pathogen History
- Archaeological Science and Data Integration
- Interdisciplinary Historical Research
Find more ancient history academic positions, postdoctoral fellowships, and interdisciplinary research opportunities worldwide, connecting scholars with fully funded research and career-building academic roles.
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements
- PhD in Archaeology, Bioarchaeology, Ancient History, or related field
- Experience with bioarchaeological and/or palaeogenetic evidence
- Strong knowledge of interdisciplinary research methods
- Ability to work within collaborative research programmes
Preferred Qualifications
- Proven research publications (for Fellow level)
- Experience in interdisciplinary academic projects
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent academic writing and communication abilities
Explore more postdoctoral fellowships, short-term fellowships, fully funded postdoc and research opportunities worldwide for scholars aiming to engage in international academic collaborations.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop interdisciplinary research methodologies
- Analyse bioarchaeological and palaeogenetic evidence
- Conduct original research on ancient diseases and pandemics
- Collaborate on project publications and outputs
- Participate in academic workshops and events
- Support interdisciplinary team research activities
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents through the official portal as listed below:
Required Documents
- CV with referee contact details
- Cover letter outlining research experience
- Academic transcripts
- PhD certificate or proof of completion
- Research statement
- Writing sample (7,000–10,000 words)
- References
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 22 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 20 May 2026
- Interview Period: To be announced
- Expected Start Date: September 2026
Where to Apply
- University/Institution: University of Exeter
- Department: Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences | University of Exeter
- Job ID: Q14532
Official Information
- Source: Official University Job Portal
- Apply Link: Job Details _Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Ancient Disease & Pandemics – University of Exeter,
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking funded research positions, international academic collaboration, and advanced research opportunities at the University of Exeter, United Kingdom.
Find the latest fully funded scholarships, postdoctoral fellowships, and global research opportunities on HigherJobz – a platform for advancing international academic careers.
