About the Position
Leiden University is seeking a Postdoctoral Researcher (0.6 FTE, 4 years) in Sedimentary DNA Analysis to join the ERC-funded WILDERFARM project at the Faculty of Archaeology. The position focuses on sedimentary DNA (sedaDNA) analysis to study human-wildlife relationships during the Mesolithic-Neolithic transition. Supervised by Dr Nathalie Brusgaard, the role combines cutting-edge laboratory work, data management, and public outreach. WILDERFARM investigates how early farming practices reshaped interactions between humans and wildlife across western Europe (6000–2000 BCE), integrating archaeology, ecology, and conservation biology. The postdoctoral researcher will lead the sedaDNA sub-project, contribute to multiple work packages, collaborate with PhD students and external partners, and publish in high-impact journals. The position offers hybrid working flexibility, a supportive research environment, and opportunities to engage in international interdisciplinary research.
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Position/Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Institution: Leiden University
- Department: Faculty of Archaeology
- Research Field: Archaeogenomics, Sedimentary DNA, Human-Wildlife Interactions
- Location: Leiden, Netherlands
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Academic Staff, Full-time (0.6 FTE)
- Start Date (Anticipated): April 2026 or as soon as possible
- Working Hours: 22–23 hours/week (flexible)
- Salary Range: €4,075 – €4,412 gross/month (full-time equivalent)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Sedimentary DNA (sedaDNA) analysis for archaeological research
- Human-wildlife interactions during Mesolithic-Neolithic transition
- Archaeogenomics and ecological reconstruction
- Data management and laboratory coordination
- Public outreach and conservation education
- Interdisciplinary archaeological methods
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD by the time of appointment in (palaeo)genomics, archaeology, ecology, or related field
- Experience with DNA analysis and laboratory work
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in public outreach and interdisciplinary projects
- Knowledge of European archaeological contexts and conservation
- Flexibility to travel within and outside the Netherlands
- Driver’s license and additional European language skills considered an advantage
Key Responsibilities
- Collect and analyse sedaDNA samples from archaeological sites
- Test hypotheses on prehistoric human-wildlife relationships
- Coordinate laboratory work and manage data
- Contribute to public outreach initiatives
- Publish in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences
- Collaborate with WILDERFARM team members and the Faculty community
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit your application online through the Leiden University recruitment portal.
Required Documents
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae with list of publications
- Research plan (max 1 page excluding references)
- Names and contact details of two referees
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Immediately
- Deadline: 12 January 2026
- First Round Interviews: Late January 2026 (online)
Useful Links
- Institution Website: Leiden University – Faculty of Archaeology
- Official Notification Link: click here
- Apply Now: Apply Online
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