Predoctoral (PhD) Researcher Position at Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Spain

About Position/Job

The ERC project PollutedPast, led by Dr. Olalla López-Costas, is offering two fully funded Predoctoral (PhD) positions at the Universidade de Santiago de Compostela. The project focuses on studying human exposure to metal pollution through skeletal remains from Roman and Medieval times in Iberia and Scandinavia. This research plays a crucial role in understanding how ancient populations were affected by metals like lead and mercury, with a multidisciplinary approach involving bioarchaeology, osteoarchaeology, and isotope analysis. The positions are based at the CRETUS Institute, renowned for its excellence in bioarchaeological research.

Position/Job Details

Position: Predoctoral Researcher (PhD Student)
Institution: Universidade de Santiago de Compostela
Department: History (Archaeology)
Research Field: Bioarchaeology, Metal Pollution, Osteoarchaeology
Location: Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Number of Posts: 2
Job Type: Full-time, PhD studentship (3 years)
Start Date (Anticipated): September 1, 2025
Working Hours: Full-time
Salary Range: 25,751.79 to 27,217.60 €/year
Required Degree/Diploma: MSc

Research Area

Archaeological Sciences
Physical Anthropology
Geochemistry
Osteoarchaeology
Paleopathology

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

MSc in Archaeological Sciences, Physical Anthropology, Geochemistry, Osteoarchaeology, Paleopathology, or related fields.
Strong analytical background with advanced training in osteoarchaeology or stable isotope biogeochemistry.
Proficiency in English (reading and writing).

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in Roman and Medieval archaeological contexts.
Fieldwork experience, especially with necropolises.
Knowledge of Spanish, Swedish, and/or Galician languages.

Key Responsibilities

Investigate human-metal pollution connection during Roman and Medieval times.
Research themes include intra- and inter-skeletal variation, metals and infectious diseases, and mother-baby environments.
Conduct independent research and write articles for publication.
Collaborate with team members on publications and research dissemination.
Receive training in isotopic and elemental analysis techniques.