About the Position
The University of Tübingen invites applications for a fully funded postdoctoral researcher in Geosciences and Palaeoanthropology at the Department of Geosciences. This 2-year position focuses on the Middle to Upper Palaeolithic transition in the Armenian Highlands. The project aims to resolve hominin authorship and the chronology of the Late Middle Palaeolithic sequence.
The successful candidate will conduct multidisciplinary research, including radiocarbon dating, proteomics (ZooMS), stable isotope geochemistry, and ancient sedimentary DNA analysis. Field excavations in Armenia are also required. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact research in human evolution, Neanderthal extinction, and modern human dispersal.
The postdoctoral researcher will work within the HUMAN ORIGINS Cluster of Excellence, collaborating with international experts in archaeology and geosciences. Applicants should hold a doctoral degree in archaeology, geosciences, or a related discipline, with experience in laboratory techniques, GIS, quantitative analysis, or zooarchaeology.
This fully funded postdoctoral position at the University of Tübingen combines lab research, field studies, and professional development.
Program / Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher (Full-time)
- Institution: University of Tübingen, Germany
- Department: Department of Geosciences, Faculty of Science
- Research Field: Geosciences / Palaeoanthropology
- Supervisor: Dr Andrew Kandel
- Location: Tübingen, Germany
- Number of Positions: 1
- Job Type: Full-time Postdoc
- Start Date: May 2026 (flexible)
- Working Hours: 40 hours/week
- Salary / Funding: E13 TV-L (100%, limited to 2 years)
This fully funded postdoctoral position in Palaeoanthropology at the University of Tübingen, Germany, is open for one candidate starting May 2026.
Research Area
- Middle to Upper Palaeolithic transition
- Hominin authorship and archaeological sequencing
- Radiocarbon dating, proteomics (ZooMS), stable isotope geochemistry, and ancient DNA analysis
- Armenian Highlands (MIS 3, 57–29 ka)
This research is crucial for understanding the temporal and behavioural interactions between Neanderthals and modern humans, providing globally relevant contributions to human evolutionary science.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Doctoral degree in archaeology, geosciences, or related field
- Excellent English (written and spoken)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in fieldwork, lab analysis, GIS, or quantitative data analysis
- Familiarity with zooarchaeology and faunal studies
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct interdisciplinary research in Palaeoanthropology and Geosciences
- Collaborate with international teams and research partners
- Present findings at conferences and workshops
- Optional: contribute to lab management or student mentoring
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Application Process
Applications must be submitted by email to Dr Andrew Kandel (a.kandel@uni-tuebingen.de) as a single PDF file including:
- CV (2 pages)
- Motivation letter (1 page)
- Doctoral thesis abstract (1 page)
- Contact details of two referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 17 February 2026
- Application Deadline: 04 March 2026
- Expected Start: May 2026
Useful Links / Internal Linking
- Official Institution Website: University of Tübingen
- Job Announcement: Post-doctoral researcher (m/f/d, E13 TV-L, 100%) | University of Tübingen
- Apply Here: Email Dr Andrew Kandel (a.kandel@uni-tuebingen.de)
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