About Position / Job
The Università di Bologna, Italy, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position within the Department of Classical Philology and Italian Studies. This position is part of the FIS2 SAPIENCE project, titled “Development and Trajectories of Graphic Codes on Easter Island (Rapa Nui) and in Oceania”. The research focuses on the production, selection, and transmission of prehistoric symbols and graphic codes by pre-writing communities, emphasising Rapa Nui’s petroglyphs and carvings on moai, as well as other archaeological contexts predating European arrival in 1722.
The post combines cognitive, archaeological, semiotic, and anthropological approaches, offering an exceptional opportunity for researchers interested in symbolic systems, prehistoric art, and Oceania studies. The successful candidate will contribute to field research, data analysis, and publications, collaborating with an international team of scholars while advancing their early-career research profile in the field of prehistoric graphic codes and semiotic anthropology.
Position / Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Institution: Università di Bologna
- Department: Classical Philology and Italian Studies
- Research Field: Anthropology, Archaeology
- Location: Bologna, Italy
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: To be defined (Postdoctoral Contract)
- Start Date (Anticipated): 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time (not specified)
- Annual Budget: €40,247
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Prehistoric graphic codes and symbolic systems
- Rapa Nui (Easter Island) archaeology and petroglyphs
- Semiotic and cognitive approaches to pre-writing communities
- Pacific Ocean prehistory and art
- Interdisciplinary archaeology and anthropology research
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, or related disciplines
- Proven experience in prehistoric art, symbolic systems, or Oceania studies
- Strong skills in archaeological research and data analysis
Preferred Qualifications:
- Publications or research experience related to prehistoric graphic codes
- Knowledge of semiotic and cognitive methodologies
- Ability to collaborate in an interdisciplinary research environment
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct research on prehistoric symbols and graphic codes in Rapa Nui and Oceania
- Analyse archaeological data from petroglyphs, carvings, and other pre-European contexts
- Collaborate with project team members and contribute to publications and reports
- Participate in workshops, seminars, and the dissemination of results
- Contribute to the overall development of the FIS2 SAPIENCE project
Application Process
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the Università di Bologna’s official channels. Candidates will undergo a comparative evaluation procedure based on qualifications and an interview.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- PhD certificate and transcripts
- Cover letter highlighting research experience
- Supporting documents (publications, diplomas, courses)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 14 January 2026
- Deadline: 28 January 2026 – 12:00 (UTC)
- Interview Date: To be confirmed
Useful Links
- Institution Website: Università di Bologna
- Official Job Notification: Post-doc Research Contract – Università di Bologna
- Apply Now: click here
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