About the Position
University of Reading invites applications for a fully funded Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in Ancient Sedimentary DNA at the Department of Archaeology, located on the Whiteknights Campus, UK. This exciting academic opportunity focuses on sedimentary aDNA (sedaDNA) analysis, reconstructing past landscapes, and exploring human-environment interactions during the medieval period. The project contributes to international research initiatives in archaeogenetics and palaeoecology.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively within the MEDGREENREV research consortium, undertaking independent research using sedimentary DNA laboratory techniques, degraded DNA bioinformatics pipelines, and metagenomic analysis. Access to the state-of-the-art aDNA laboratory at the Natural History Museum (NHM) and guidance from experienced researchers ensure a productive environment for high-impact publications and professional development. Opportunities for fieldwork in Spain and North Africa are also included.
Applicants must hold a PhD in archaeology, biology, or related disciplines and demonstrate strong experience in ancient/degraded DNA laboratory methods and bioinformatic analysis of environmental DNA datasets. Preferred skills include computational genomics, metagenomic pipeline development, and interdisciplinary collaboration with archaeologists, palaeoecologists, and historians. Excellent communication, analytical, and teamwork skills are essential.
This is a full-time, fixed-term Postdoctoral position for 24 months, starting flexibly from June 2026, offering a competitive salary of £36,636–£42,254 per annum. The appointment provides opportunities for international research collaboration, conference participation, and career advancement in a globally recognised research environment.
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Position / Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Ancient Sedimentary DNA
- Institution: University of Reading, UK
- Department: Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
- Research Field: Archaeogenetics, Ancient DNA, Sedimentary DNA, Palaeoecology
- Supervisor: Aleks Pluskowski (Reading PI), Selina Brace (NHM Director)
- Location: Whiteknights Campus
- Country: United Kingdom
- Job Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: Flexible, from June 2026
- Working Hours: 35 hours per week
- Salary / Funding: £36,636 – £42,254 per annum, fully funded
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in Archaeology, Biology, or related discipline
Explore fully funded postdoctoral positions, archaeological science research jobs, and interdisciplinary academic opportunities in the United Kingdom (UK), including the University of Reading, for international scholars pursuing global research careers.
Research Area
- Archaeogenetics
- Sedimentary DNA (sedaDNA)
- Palaeoecology
- Archaeology of Medieval Landscapes
- Environmental DNA Analysis
- Bioinformatics for Degraded DNA
- Human-Environment Interaction Studies
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Archaeology, Biology, or related discipline
- Experience in ancient/degraded DNA laboratory methods
- Proven bioinformatics experience with metagenomic data
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Interdisciplinary research collaboration experience
- Knowledge of archaeological sediments and field sampling
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
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Key Responsibilities
- Laboratory analysis of sedimentary DNA samples
- Development and application of bioinformatic pipelines for degraded DNA
- Reconstruction of past landscapes and species diversity
- Collaboration with archaeologists, palaeoecologists, and historians
- Fieldwork in the project regions of Spain and North Africa
- Contribution to high-impact publications and research outputs
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents through the official portal listed below:
Required Documents:
- CV / Resume
- Cover Letter
- PhD Certificate and Transcripts
- Research Statement
- Publication List
- Contact Details of References
Important Dates:
- Applications Open: 07 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026, 23:59 BST
- Interview Period: 28 May 2026
- Expected Start Date: June 2026
Where to Apply:
- University Website: University of Reading
- Department Information: Department of Archaeology
- Official Job Announcement: Post-Doctoral Research Fellow in Ancient Sedimentary DNA – Job Profile
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: a.g.pluskowski@reading.ac.uk (Reading PI)
- Email: s.brace@nhm.ac.uk (NHM Director)
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded postdoctoral research roles, interdisciplinary collaboration, and career advancement at the University of Reading, UK.
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