About the Position
The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral associate position in archaeology and paleo-environmental research at the Natural History Museum Institute, Boulder, Colorado, USA. This position focuses on the origins of animal domestication in Mongolia and ancient Eurasia, under the NSF CAREER Award (#2438455).
The postdoctoral associate will contribute to ongoing archaeological excavations, manage biomolecular lab workflows, analyse faunal assemblages, and collaborate with international research teams. This role offers a salary of $67,080 per year, access to advanced laboratory resources, and opportunities for fieldwork in western Mongolia. Candidates with expertise in zooarchaeology, biomolecular methods, or GIS analysis are highly encouraged to apply.
This position is ideal for early-career researchers aiming to strengthen their academic profile while contributing to globally significant projects in archaeology, anthropology, and human-environmental studies. Applicants will also help prepare research for publication and public outreach through museum exhibits.
Program / Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Associate
- Institution: University of Colorado Boulder, USA
- Department: Natural History Museum Institute
- Research Field: Archaeology & Paleo-Environmental Science
- Location: Boulder, Colorado, USA
- Number of Positions: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Research Faculty
- Start Date: July/August 2026 (fieldwork), Academic Year 2026
- Salary / Funding: $67,080 per year, full benefits included
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Application Deadline: 6 March 2026
This fully funded postdoctoral position at CU Boulder, USA, is open to candidates with a PhD in archaeology, anthropology, or related disciplines, starting in mid-2026.
Research Focus
- Origins of animal domestication in Mongolia and ancient Eurasia
- Archaeozoological analysis of Bronze Age and earlier faunal assemblages
- Paleo-environmental data collection, biomolecular research, and ZooMS analysis
- Laboratory and field-based archaeological methodologies
- Data management, GIS, and preparation of publications and public programming
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a closely related field at the time of application
- Experience analysing animal remains from archaeological sites (zooarchaeology/archaeozoology)
- Comfort with laboratory and biomolecular techniques, including ZooMS
- Willingness to travel and conduct field research in Mongolia
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with GIS, Excel, or archaeological data management tools
- Strong academic writing and publication record
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex schedules and grant reporting
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct archaeozoological and biomolecular research on animal domestication
- Facilitate fieldwork and excavations in western Mongolia (July/August 2026)
- Organise and analyse excavation and paleo-environmental data
- Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals
- Contribute to museum exhibits and public outreach programs
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs. Materials submitted via email will not be considered.
Required Documents:
- Resume / CV
- Cover Letter
- Names and contact information for three references
- Optional: Transcripts or proof of degree
Contact for Queries: Boulder Campus Human Resources – Recruiting@colorado.edu
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 11 February 2026
- Application Review Date: 26 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 6 March 2026
- Expected Start Date: July/August 2026 (fieldwork)
Useful Links / Internal Linking
- Official Institution Website: University of Colorado Boulder
- Job Announcement: Postdoctoral Associate
- Apply Here: Apply for Postdoctoral Associate
Explore more fully funded postdoctoral positions in archaeology and paleo-environmental research.
