About the Position
The University of Oxford invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position within the School of Archaeology in Oxford, United Kingdom. This funded research position is part of the China TRACER project (Technological Processes and Social Organisation in Early Northern China). The role focuses on interdisciplinary research examining prehistoric societies and technological traditions in northern and northwest China within the broader field of Archaeology and Heritage Studies.
The successful candidate will join an international research team investigating early technological systems and cultural exchange across northern China. Moreover, the project integrates archaeological, anthropological, and material science approaches to analyse technological innovation and social organisation. Researchers will collaborate closely with Dr Anke Hein and Dr Guohua Yang while contributing to the wider research goals of the School of Archaeology at the University of Oxford.
This funded research position offers strong opportunities for publication, interdisciplinary collaboration, and international research engagement. The appointment is fixed-term for four years at 0.8 FTE, allowing the researcher to conduct independent scholarship while supporting a major archaeological research initiative. Scholars specialising in prehistoric archaeology, East Asian archaeology, or archaeological science will find an excellent research environment within the globally recognised Archaeology and Heritage Studies community at the University of Oxford.
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Program / Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate (China TRACER Project)
- Institution: University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Department: School of Archaeology
- Research Field: Archaeology and Heritage Studies
- Supervisor: Dr Anke Hein and Dr Guohua Yang
- Location: Oxford, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Research Position
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: 2026
- Working Hours: 0.8 FTE
- Salary / Funding: £39,424 – £47,779 per year (Funded Research Position, pro-rata)
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in Archaeology, Anthropology, or related field
This funded research position in Archaeology and Heritage Studies at the University of Oxford is open for one candidate starting in 2026. Discover research positions and fellowships at the University of Oxford, UK.
Research Area
The research project focuses on:
- Prehistoric archaeology of northern and northwest China
- Technological processes in early societies
- Cultural exchange and social organisation
- Archaeological science and material analysis
- Interdisciplinary methods in archaeology and anthropology
- Technological traditions and innovation in ancient China
- Comparative archaeological research in East Asia
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Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- PhD in Archaeology, Anthropology, or a closely related discipline
- Strong academic background in Archaeology or Archaeological Science
- Demonstrated research experience in prehistoric or East Asian archaeology
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with interdisciplinary archaeological research methods
- Peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations
- Experience collaborating in international research projects
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct interdisciplinary research on prehistoric northern China
- Collaborate with international research teams and project investigators
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals
- Present results at academic conferences and workshops
- Support the research mission of the School of Archaeology
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official online recruitment system of the University of Oxford.
Required Documents
- CV / Resume
- Supporting Statement explaining how the applicant meets the selection criteria
- Academic Transcripts
- References or recommendation letters (if requested)
- Publication list (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently Open
- Application Deadline: 6 April 2026 (12:00 noon UK time)
- Interview Period: Week commencing 20 April 2026
- Expected Start Date: 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Oxford
- Department Information: School of Archaeology
- Official Job Announcement: Postdoctoral Research Associate – China TRACER Project
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application Online
📧 Contact for Queries
Email: hr@arch.ox.ac.uk
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking funded research positions, international academic collaboration, and advanced archaeological research opportunities in the United Kingdom. Explore more postdoctoral fellowships, funded PhD positions, and academic jobs for international researchers.
