About the Position
The University of York invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Assyriology at the Department of Archaeology, York, United Kingdom. This position focuses on translating Sumerian literature, Akkadian classics, and other cuneiform texts into Arabic, thereby contributing to global research in Archaeology, digital heritage, and ancient Near Eastern studies.
The successful candidate will prepare critical editions, translations, linguistic annotations, and glossary records for Sumerian and Akkadian texts, primarily literary works. In addition, the research will utilise the internationally recognised Cuneiform Digital Library Initiative and involve close collaboration with the TUA-CH project team. Candidates will also present research at international conferences and publish findings in leading scholarly journals.
Applicants must hold a PhD in Assyriology or demonstrate equivalent research experience. Furthermore, they should possess native or C2-level proficiency in Arabic, excellent knowledge of Sumerian and Akkadian, and at least B1-level English. Strong written and oral communication skills are also required, alongside the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
This role offers Fully Funded research support at the University of York, providing access to advanced digital repositories and international academic networks. Consequently, shortlisted candidates must submit a research sample and translations of Sumerian and Akkadian texts prior to the interview. Additionally, the university actively encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and supports disabled applicants under its Disability Confident scheme.
Program / Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate
- Institution: University of York, United Kingdom
- Department: Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Arts and Humanities
- Research Field: Archaeology / Assyriology / Ancient Near Eastern Studies
- Supervisor: Dr Émilie Pagé-Perron
- Location: York, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Full-time Postdoctoral Research Position
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: 2026 (to be confirmed)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary / Funding: £37,694 – £42,254 per year (Funding status: Fully Funded Salary Position)
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in Assyriology or equivalent experience
This fully funded academic position in Archaeology at the University of York, United Kingdom, is open to one candidate and starts in 2026. Explore more research opportunities at the University of York, UK
Research Area
The research project focuses on:
- Translation of Sumerian literature and Akkadian classical texts
- Assyriology and cuneiform textual studies
- Digital humanities and archaeological data infrastructures
- Linguistic annotation and glossary development for ancient texts
- Cultural heritage preservation and digital archives
- Arabic translation of ancient Near Eastern literature
- International collaboration in archaeological research data
Scholars interested in advanced archaeology research jobs and academic positions can explore related opportunities.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- PhD in Assyriology or related field
- Strong academic background in Archaeology and ancient Near Eastern studies
- Demonstrated research experience in Sumerian and Akkadian texts
- Excellent Arabic language proficiency (C2/native)
- Good English language skills for academic communication
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with digital research infrastructures or archaeological datasets
- Peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations in Assyriology
- Experience collaborating within international research teams
Find more fully funded Postdoctoral Research positions and academic research opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research in Archaeology and Assyriology
- Translate Sumerian and Akkadian texts into Arabic
- Prepare critical editions and linguistic annotations of cuneiform texts
- Collaborate with international research teams and heritage science initiatives
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals
- Present results at international conferences and academic workshops
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the official University of York online recruitment portal.
Required Documents
- CV / Resume
- Motivation or Cover Letter
- Academic Transcripts
- References or Recommendation Letters
- Example of research output
- Translation and commentary for a Sumerian and Akkadian text
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 11 March 2026
- Application Deadline: 2 April 2026 (UK time)
- Interview Period: To be confirmed
- Expected Start Date: 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of York
- Department Information: Department of Archaeology
- Official Job Announcement: Postdoctoral Research Associate (Assyriology)-York
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: emilie.page-perron@york.ac.uk
- Phone: +44 (0) 1904 32 4835
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research positions, international academic collaboration, and advanced research opportunities in the United Kingdom.
Explore more postdoctoral fellowships, funded PhD positions, and academic jobs for international researchers.
