Freie Universität Berlin invites applications for a funded Postdoctoral Researcher in Prehistoric Archaeology within the Institute of Prehistoric Archaeology. The position is offered on a 75% part-time basis for up to four years, with applications closing on 13 July 2026. This opportunity supports research, teaching, laboratory coordination, and professional development within archaeological science and digital archaeology.
Building on this role, the successful applicant will coordinate the Institute’s Field & Finds Laboratory, supporting its continued development as a shared research facility. The position combines laboratory management with research and university teaching, focusing on prehistoric archaeology, geoarchaeology, digital excavation, 3D documentation, and archaeological finds analysis while contributing to ongoing scientific qualification.
In addition to laboratory duties, the post includes responsibility for developing teaching in archaeological methods, supervising digital excavation and microarchaeology activities, and supporting archaeological field research projects alongside international collaborations. Administrative and organisational responsibilities also form part of the appointment, ensuring effective operation of research infrastructure and field-based activities.
As part of future development, the postdoctoral researcher will contribute to expanding the Field & Finds Laboratory into a central facility for Classical Studies and Religious Studies. The role also encourages independent research project development, research funding applications, science communication, student support, university service, and participation in collaborative archaeological research initiatives.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher (Field & Finds Laboratory)
- Institution: Freie Universität Berlin, Germany
- Department: Department of History and Cultural Studies – Institute of Prehistoric Archaeology
- Research Disciplines: Prehistoric Archaeology, Digital Archaeology, Geoarchaeology
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Contract Duration: Up to 4 years
- Working Hours: 75% Part-time
- Salary/Funding: TV-L E13 funded position
- Required Qualification: PhD in Prehistoric Archaeology or Prehistory and Early History
Research Areas
This Postdoctoral Researcher position in Prehistoric Archaeology supports research across the following specialist areas:
- Prehistoric Archaeology
- Geoarchaeology and Microarchaeology
- Digital Excavation and Recording
- Prospection and Survey Methods
- Photogrammetry, 3D Documentation and Reconstruction
- Finds Analysis and Data Interpretation
Eligibility / Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- Completed Master’s degree (or equivalent) and PhD in Prehistoric Archaeology or Prehistory and Early History.
- Minimum three years of professional archaeological fieldwork experience, including archaeological survey and project design.
- Experience in archaeological prospection, UAV survey, photogrammetry, digital excavation, and 3D documentation and reconstruction.
- Knowledge of digital archaeological data analysis and archaeological finds analysis.
- Experience conducting international archaeological field research and working in interdisciplinary or collaborative research projects.
- University teaching experience, preferably in geoarchaeology or archaeoinformatics.
- Very good written and spoken German and English language skills.
- Strong organisational, communication, and teamwork skills.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Coordinate and further develop the Field & Finds Laboratory and support its equipment and technology resources.
- Lead and support work in digital excavation, geoarchaeology, microarchaeology, and archaeological finds analysis.
- Teach courses in digital excavation, archaeological surveying, geoarchaeology, photogrammetry, and 3D documentation and reconstruction.
- Support archaeological fieldwork, international research projects, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
- Develop and improve archaeological research methods while contributing to independent research projects and external funding applications.
- Participate in science communication, student support, and academic administration.
Application Process
Applications should be submitted electronically as a single PDF document quoting the reference PA02_2026-WiMi (Postdoc) Laboratory.
Required documents include:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic certificates
- PhD certificate
- Publication list
- Supporting academic documents relevant to the position
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 28 June 2026
- Application Deadline: 13 July 2026
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: To be agreed
Applications close on 13 July 2026. Applicants should submit all required documents before the deadline using the official application process provided by Freie Universität Berlin.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Global Archaeological Science Careers
- Prehistoric Archaeology Jobs Worldwide
- Digital Archaeology Research Positions
- Geoarchaeology Academic Jobs Abroad
- Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Academic Jobs in Germany
Institutional Overview
Freie Universität Berlin is one of Germany’s leading public research universities, recognised for research across the humanities, sciences and interdisciplinary fields. The Institute of Prehistoric Archaeology forms part of the Department of History and Cultural Studies and conducts archaeological research through excavations, surveys and scientific analysis across Germany, Central and Eastern Europe, and regions extending into Inner Asia. The Institute combines fieldwork with laboratory-based research and digital archaeological methods while supporting university teaching, international collaborations and public engagement. Its recently established Field & Finds Laboratory strengthens research infrastructure for archaeological documentation, digital recording and scientific analysis.
Planning a research career in Germany? Explore our Study and Research in Germany: Top Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowships List, Eligibility & Funding Guide to learn about funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and postdoctoral research pathways at German universities and research institutions.
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