The University of Bologna, Italy, is offering a postdoctoral research contract in zooarchaeology within the Department of Cultural Heritage. The position focuses on animal resource exploitation in Sicily between Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages. The research involves analysing faunal remains, archaeological evidence, and patterns of past animal use.
This research contract is part of the project “Exploitation of Animal Resources between Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages in Sicily.” The selected researcher will study faunal remains recovered from archaeological contexts included in the project and from additional Sicilian sites dating to these historical periods.
The role involves zooarchaeological analysis through taxonomic and anatomical identification of animal remains, assessment of mortality profiles, and examination of anthropogenic traces found on bones. The researcher will also apply economic indicators related to animal exploitation.
Through this study, the postdoctoral researcher will investigate archaeological evidence connected with animal resource use, contributing to studies of past economies, subsistence practices, and human–animal interactions in Sicily.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Contract in Zooarchaeology
- Official Reference: Rep. 4260 Prot. 132238
- Institution: University of Bologna, Italy
- Department: Department of Cultural Heritage
- Research Discipline(s): Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, Zoology
- Location: Ravenna, Italy
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Research
- Contract Duration: 12 months
- Working Hours: Not specified
- Salary/Funding: Annual budget of €48,296
- Required Qualification: Doctoral-level expertise or equivalent research experience in archaeology, physical anthropology, zoology, or related disciplines.
- Application Deadline: 21 August 2026, 12:00 UTC
Research Project
The research project “Exploitation of Animal Resources between Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages in Sicily” examines the use of animal resources through the study of archaeological faunal remains. The project focuses on materials recovered from archaeological contexts included in the research and from other Sicilian sites dating to the same historical periods.
The selected researcher will investigate animal remains from Late Antiquity to the Early Middle Ages using zooarchaeological methods. The study aims to understand patterns of animal use, resource management, and economic practices through archaeological and biological evidence.
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants should have doctoral-level expertise and relevant experience in the following areas:
- Background in archaeological research.
- Experience in zooarchaeological analysis and identification of faunal remains.
- Knowledge of taxonomic and anatomical identification methods.
- Experience studying animal bones from archaeological contexts.
- Understanding of human–animal relationships and past resource use.
- Ability to work with interdisciplinary approaches combining archaeological and biological evidence.
Key Responsibilities
The selected researcher will contribute to the project through the following activities:
- Conducting taxonomic and anatomical identification of animal remains.
- Analysing mortality profiles of recovered faunal specimens.
- Examining anthropogenic traces and modifications found on animal bones.
- Applying economic indicators related to animal exploitation.
- Interpreting archaeological evidence connected with past human–animal interactions.
- Supporting interdisciplinary research combining archaeological and biological approaches.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their applications through the official University of Bologna recruitment platform. The selection procedure will involve a comparative evaluation of qualifications and an interview.
Required documents may include:
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic qualifications and research experience details
- Supporting documents requested through the official application portal
- Any additional materials specified in the call document
Why This Position Matters for Archaeology Researchers
Zooarchaeological research allows researchers to study how past communities used animals for food, farming, trade, and daily activities. By examining animal bones and other remains from archaeological sites, researchers can explore ancient diets, resource use, and human–animal relationships.
The study of Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages in Sicily examines changes in animal use, resource management, and daily life during a period of major historical change. This research contract allows scholars to gain experience in zooarchaeological methods while supporting studies of Mediterranean archaeology.
Using archaeological and biological methods, the project will expand understanding of past societies and examine how people used animals and natural resources in different historical contexts.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 23 July 2026
- Application Deadline: 21 August 2026, 12:00 UTC
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: Not specified
Eligible researchers should review the official call details and complete their application through the University of Bologna portal before the deadline on 21 August 2026.
Related Academic Opportunities
Explore related archaeology, cultural heritage, and research opportunities for scholars seeking academic positions worldwide:
- Postdoctoral Research Opportunities Worldwide
- University Research Positions in Italy
- Cultural Heritage Postdoctoral Opportunities
- Archaeological Science Research Jobs
- Mediterranean Studies Research Opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the research focus of this postdoctoral position?
The research focuses on zooarchaeological analysis of animal remains related to resource exploitation in Sicily between Late Antiquity and the Early Middle Ages.
Which university is offering this research contract?
The postdoctoral research contract is offered by the University of Bologna in Italy through the Department of Cultural Heritage.
What is the application deadline for this position?
The application deadline is 21 August 2026 at 12:00 UTC.
What disciplines are related to this opportunity?
The position relates to archaeology, physical anthropology, biological sciences, and zoology, with a focus on zooarchaeological research.
About the University of Bologna
The University of Bologna is a public university in Italy with a long history of teaching and research. It supports education and research across humanities, sciences, and social disciplines through its departments, research centres, and international collaborations. The university is recognised for work in areas including archaeology, cultural studies, history, and heritage research. Researchers at the institution study past societies, traditions, and cultural changes using archaeological evidence, historical sources, and scientific methods. The university supports research across archaeology, cultural studies, history, and heritage through academic programmes, research centres, and partnerships with institutions worldwide.
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