The University of Oxford, UK, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in ancient numismatics and monetary history at the Ashmolean Museum. The role is part of a three-year research project examining the monetary economy of ancient Syracuse during the Classical and Hellenistic periods.
Based in the Heberden Coin Room, the researcher will work on the Small Change and History project, which investigates the political, economic and social role of small silver and bronze coinage in ancient Sicily.
The appointed researcher will develop a comprehensive corpus of Syracuse’s small silver and bronze coins and analyse literary, epigraphic and archaeological evidence. The role also involves using quantitative analysis and digital methods to study ancient monetary systems.
The researcher will produce original academic outputs, including a major monograph, peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. The position includes collaboration with researchers from the DIEGEST Project, the Centre for the Study of Ancient Documents and international academic partners.
This opportunity supports research in ancient numismatics, Classical archaeology and monetary history through the study of Syracuse’s coinage and economic practices.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher – Small Change and History: Understanding the Monetary Economy of Ancient Syracuse
- Official Reference Number: 187787
- Institution: University of Oxford, UK
- Department: Ashmolean Museum, Heberden Coin Room
- Research Discipline(s): Ancient Numismatics, Classical Archaeology, Monetary History
- Location: Oxford, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Contract Duration: 36 months (Fixed-term)
- Start Date: Not specified
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary/Funding: £39,424 – £47,779 per annum
- Required Qualification: PhD/DPhil in a relevant discipline (completed or near completion)
Research Areas
The research position focuses on the following areas:
- Ancient Greek and Roman numismatics
- Monetary economy of ancient Syracuse
- Classical and Hellenistic Sicily
- Small silver and bronze coinage studies
- Archaeological and epigraphic research
- Digital methods in historical research
Eligibility/ Qualifications
Required Qualifications for Postdoctoral Researcher in Oxford Ancient Numismatics Include:
- A completed or near-completed PhD/DPhil in a relevant academic discipline
- Specialist knowledge of ancient numismatics
- Working knowledge of ancient Greek and Latin languages
- Experience conducting independent academic research
- Ability to publish research in peer-reviewed academic publications
- Experience presenting research at conferences and academic events
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to contribute effectively to collaborative research projects
Additional experience in die studies, original ancient numismatic materials, nomisma.org standards, or relevant modern languages will be considered beneficial.
Research Responsibilities
The successful candidate for the Oxford Ancient Numismatics Postdoctoral Researcher position will contribute to the project through the following activities:
- Developing a corpus of Syracuse’s small silver and bronze coinage
- Researching ancient monetary systems and practices
- Analysing literary, epigraphic and archaeological evidence
- Applying quantitative and digital research methods
- Preparing academic publications and conference presentations
- Collaborating with researchers and international project partners
Funding and Benefits
The University of Oxford provides a range of employment benefits for this research position, including:
- Contributory pension scheme
- 38 days of annual leave
- Childcare services and family leave schemes
- Cycle loan scheme
- Discounted bus travel and season ticket travel loans
Application Process
Applicants must complete an online application and provide supporting materials demonstrating their suitability for the position. The supporting statement should address each essential and desirable selection criterion listed in the job description.
Required application documents include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Supporting statement explaining relevant experience and qualifications
Important Dates
- Applications Open: July 2026
- Application Deadline: 28 August 2026, 12:00 midday BST
- Interview Period: Expected on 30 September 2026
- Expected Start Date: Not specified
Eligible candidates should review the official job details, prepare the required documents, and submit their application before the closing date to be considered for this Postdoctoral Researcher position at the University of Oxford.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the research focus of this Postdoctoral Researcher position at the University of Oxford?
The position focuses on the monetary economy of ancient Syracuse, particularly small silver and bronze coinage during the Classical and Hellenistic periods.
Where is the Postdoctoral Researcher position located?
The position is based at the Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont Street, Oxford, United Kingdom.
What qualifications are required for this Oxford research position?
Applicants should hold or be close to completing a PhD/DPhil in a relevant discipline with specialist knowledge of ancient numismatics.
What is the application deadline for this Postdoctoral Researcher role?
Applications must be submitted by 28 August 2026 at 12:00 midday BST.
Institutional Overview
The University of Oxford, UK, is a globally recognised research university with a long tradition of academic excellence across humanities, sciences and social sciences. Founded in the 12th century, Oxford provides a leading environment for advanced research, teaching and innovation. The institution supports international scholars through world-class libraries, museums, research centres and collaborative programmes. Its archaeology and heritage research activities explore human history, material culture and past societies through interdisciplinary approaches. The university’s museums, including the Ashmolean Museum, provide important resources for ancient history, classical studies and archaeological research. Oxford continues to advance knowledge through global partnerships, scholarly publications and impactful research projects.
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