Postdoctoral Researcher Position in Palaeolithic Archaeology at ICArEHB, University of Algarve, Portugal

About the Position

The University of Algarve (Universidade do Algarve) is inviting applications for a full-time Post-Doctoral Associate Researcher position in Palaeolithic Archaeology, based at the Interdisciplinary Center for Archaeology and the Evolution of Human Behaviour (ICArEHB). This role is part of the prestigious ERC-funded WRAP project (Western Rift Archaeology and Palaeoenvironments Project). The successful candidate will be involved in cutting-edge research on the Early Stone Age, including drone-assisted field surveys in Uganda’s Albertine Rift Valley, and the application of machine learning for archaeological data analysis. This position offers a dynamic international research environment, access to interdisciplinary collaborations, and opportunities for teaching, publication, and outreach. It is a unique opportunity for an early-career researcher to contribute to one of Europe’s most forward-thinking archaeological initiatives.

Position/Job Details

Position: Post-Doctoral Associate Researcher
Institution: Universidade do Algarve
Department: ICArEHB (Interdisciplinary Center for Archaeology and the Evolution of Human Behaviour)
Research Field: Palaeolithic Archaeology
Location: Faro, Portugal
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (up to 5 years)
Start Date (Anticipated): May 28, 2025
Working Hours: 35 hours/week
Salary Range: €2,351.53 gross per month
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Palaeolithic and Early Stone Age Archaeology
Drone-assisted field surveys
Machine learning and archaeological data
Fieldwork and excavation in East Africa
Database and spatial data management

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in Archaeology or related field
Experience in Early Stone Age or Palaeolithic fieldwork
Familiarity with machine learning techniques
Strong English proficiency (written and oral)
Field project organisation experience, preferably in Africa

Preferred Qualifications:

Programming in R and/or Python
Experience in GIS and drone-based survey
Record of publication in peer-reviewed journals
Excellent teamwork and science communication skills
Capacity to teach and mentor junior researchers

Key Responsibilities

Lead archaeological fieldwork and surveys in Uganda’s Albertine Rift
Operate and manage drone-based data collection (LiDAR, multispectral, photogrammetry)
Maintain and analyse archaeological and spatial datasets
Collaborate with international partners and co-author publications
Organise workshops, participate in team meetings and training
Optional teaching duties up to 90 hours per year

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit all application materials via email to srhconcurso@ualg.pt. Printed or in-person applications can also be submitted to the University’s General Office at Universidade do Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal.

Required Documents:

Completed application form (available from the UAlg website)
Copy of PhD certificate/diploma
Curriculum Vitae
Cover letter (maximum 3000 characters) detailing your most relevant research contributions
3–5 selected publications
Additional documents supporting teaching, outreach, or other relevant activities