Postdoctoral Position in Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction –

About the Position

University of Reading invites applications for a Fully Funded postdoctoral position in Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction at the School of Archaeology, Geography & Environmental Science, based in Reading, United Kingdom. This three-year research role explores climate and vegetation dynamics across Africa during the last 6,000 years. Moreover, the project forms part of an international collaboration studying human–environment interactions in the Holocene.

Researchers will analyse climate, vegetation, wildfire, and archaeological evidence using modern modelling techniques. Consequently, the postdoctoral fellow will develop innovative statistical approaches while working with international partners and interdisciplinary datasets. Strong programming skills and experience in palaeoenvironmental reconstruction are therefore highly valuable.

Furthermore, the role contributes to the EcoArch research initiative examining ecological archaeologies of the Afrotropics. The successful candidate will collaborate with scientists across Europe and the United States. Importantly, the position also offers professional development, conference participation, and advanced analytical research opportunities.

The post provides a competitive salary and an active academic environment. Career-defining opportunity.

Program / Job Details

Position: Post-Doctoral Research Assistant (PDRA)
Institution: University of Reading, United Kingdom
Department: School of Archaeology, Geography & Environmental Science
Research Field: Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction
Supervisor: Sandy P. Harrison
Location: Reading, United Kingdom
Number of Positions: 1
Job Type: Full-time Postdoctoral Research Role
Start Date: 2026 (Flexible)
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary / Funding: £36,636 – £38,784 per year

This Fully Funded postdoctoral research position in Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction at the University of Reading, UK, is open for international applicants beginning in 2026.

Research Area

African palaeoclimate reconstruction
Vegetation and wildfire history
Statistical and climate modelling techniques
Holocene environmental change in the Afrotropics

This research improves global understanding of climate-human interactions and long-term environmental transformation.

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

PhD in Environmental Science or a closely related discipline
Knowledge of palaeoclimate or palaeoenvironmental reconstruction
Strong analytical and programming abilities

Preferred Qualifications

Previous postdoctoral research experience
Experience with environmental modelling and statistical evaluation
Publications in relevant scientific journals

Key Responsibilities

Conduct research in Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction and climate modelling
Develop statistical approaches for archaeological environmental data
Collaborate with international research teams
Present research at conferences and workshops

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