The University of Lincoln is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microplastics in Archaeological Samples within the School of Natural Sciences. This 30-month full-time postdoctoral research position forms part of the AHRC-funded MicroPast Project, which investigates the impact of microplastic contamination on archaeological soils, sediments, and artefacts across the United Kingdom.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Associate in Microplastics in Archaeological Samples
- Institution: University of Lincoln, United Kingdom
- Department: School of Natural Sciences
- Research Disciplines: Archaeological Science, Environmental Geochemistry, Environmental Archaeology
- Location: Lincoln, England, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Research Associate
- Contract Duration: Fixed-term, 30 months
- Start Date: Not specified
- Working Hours: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
- Salary/Funding: From £38,784 per annum (AHRC-funded project)
- Required Qualification: Relevant doctoral degree (see official person specification)
About the Project
The successful candidate will join the AHRC-funded MicroPast Project, Challenging the Preservation Paradigm: The Impact of Microplastics on the Integrity of Archaeological Soils and Sediments. The project is coordinated by the University of York in partnership with the University of Lincoln, the University of Hull, and York Archaeology Trust.
The research examines microplastic contamination in archaeological soils and sediments across the United Kingdom and assesses its effects on the preservation of archaeological materials. The postholder will undertake fieldwork and laboratory research using analytical geochemistry and microplastics analysis.
Research activities include archaeological sampling, laboratory investigations, geospatial data analysis, contamination risk assessment, and the preparation of peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, and conference presentations.
Working with researchers and heritage partners across the participating organisations, the successful candidate will contribute evidence that supports future archaeological site preservation and heritage management.
Research Area
This Postdoctoral Research Associate at Lincoln covers the following research areas:
- Archaeological Science and Heritage Conservation
- Environmental Archaeology and Geoarchaeology
- Environmental Geochemistry and Analytical Chemistry
- Microplastics and Environmental Pollution
- Soil and Sediment Science
- Geospatial Data Analysis and Contamination Risk Assessment
Eligibility / Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- PhD or equivalent doctoral qualification relevant to the research area
- Experience in archaeological science, environmental science, chemistry, geochemistry, or related disciplines
- Knowledge of laboratory-based analytical techniques
- Ability to analyse scientific datasets and research evidence
- Experience producing academic publications or research reports
- Strong communication and collaborative research skills
- Ability to work independently within multidisciplinary research teams
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Quantify microplastic contamination within archaeological sediment samples.
- Analyse datasets relating to soils, sediments, waters, and contamination risks.
- Identify suitable archaeological sampling locations alongside project partners.
- Conduct laboratory digestion, filtration, and microplastics analysis using Micro-FTIR spectroscopy.
- Lead long-term mesocosm investigations examining impacts on archaeological materials.
- Produce high-quality research publications, reports, presentations, and collaborative project outputs.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through the University of Lincoln’s online recruitment system before the application deadline. Applicants should complete the online application and provide all documents and information requested within the official application portal.
Applicants should prepare:
- Completed online application
- Documents requested through the application portal
- Evidence of relevant academic qualifications
- Any additional information required by the University of Lincoln
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently open
- Application Deadline: 17 July 2026
- Interview Period: 14 August 2026
- Expected Start Date: Not specified
Applications close on 17 July 2026. Submit your application through the University of Lincoln’s online recruitment system before the deadline.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Global Research Fellowships
- Archaeology Research Jobs
- Cultural Heritage Careers
- International Postdoc Positions
- Academic Jobs in UK
Institutional Overview
The University of Lincoln is a public research university in Lincoln, England, with its main campus located at Brayford Pool. Through the School of Natural Sciences, the university undertakes research across environmental science, analytical chemistry, archaeology, and heritage science while working with academic institutions, heritage organisations, and industry partners. Its research environment supports interdisciplinary collaboration, enabling researchers to address scientific and environmental challenges through evidence-based investigation. The university also contributes to nationally and internationally funded research projects, providing opportunities for researchers to develop expertise, publish high-quality research, and engage in collaborative knowledge exchange.
Find more funded research positions and fellowships at UK universities in: Top UK Fellowships and Research Funding Opportunities for Global Scholars (2026).
Researchers seeking additional postdoctoral research positions, archaeology jobs, heritage science careers, and academic vacancies can explore similar opportunities published regularly on HigherJobz.
