About Position / Job
Kiel University (Christian-Albrecht-Universität zu Kiel) is inviting applications for a Research Assistant / Research Associate (wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiterin) position within the Cluster of Excellence ROOTS, with a strong research focus on Archaeobotany. This part-time (50%), fully funded academic position runs until 31 December 2032, aligned with the ROOTS funding phase, and is supervised by Prof. Dr. Martin Furholt with academic coordination by Prof. Dr. Wiebke Kirleis.
The role centres on human–environment interaction, plant economy, and dietary reconstruction in past societies, using archaeobotanical and palaeoecological datasets across different spatial and social scales. Embedded within an internationally recognised interdisciplinary research environment, the position contributes to ROOTS’ broader agenda on socio-ecological connectivity, combining archaeobotany, archaeology, data science, GIS, and environmental history. The post offers excellent opportunities for long-term academic development, data-driven research, and collaborative case studies within northern European and global archaeological contexts.
Position / Job Details
- Position: Research Assistant / Research Associate
- Institution: Kiel University (Christian-Albrecht-Universität zu Kiel)
- Department: Cluster of Excellence ROOTS
- Research Field: Archaeobotany
- Location: Kiel, Germany
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Part-time, Fixed-term Research Position
- Start Date (Anticipated): As soon as possible
- Working Hours: 19.35 hours per week (50%)
- Salary Range: Up to TV-L E13 (subject to eligibility)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s
Research Area
- Archaeobotany and palaeoethnobotany
- Human–environment interaction
- Plant economy and past nutrition
- Archaeological and palaeoecological data analysis
- GIS and spatial statistics in archaeology
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- University degree with a focus on archaeobotany, biology, or prehistoric and early history
- Solid knowledge of palaeoethnobotany
- Experience in the archaeobotanical fieldwork
- Expertise in microscopy and photographic documentation
- Skills in database management, statistical analysis, GIS, and basic programming (e.g. R)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Knowledge of geometric morphometry
- Class B driving licence
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct archaeobotanical research on human–environment interaction
- Reconstruct the plant economy and dietary practices of past societies
- Process, analyse, and present archaeobotanical and palaeoecological datasets
- Supervise case studies and evaluate existing research data
- Contribute to interdisciplinary ROOTS research platforms and subclusters
Application Process
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email as a single PDF file to the ROOTS Search Committee.
Email Submission: application@roots.uni-kiel.de
Required Documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae (including list of publications)
- Proof of academic degrees and qualifications
- Two references (name, institution, email address)
- Certification of equivalence for foreign qualifications (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Currently open
- Deadline: 08 January 2026
- Interview Date: Not specified
Useful Links
- Institution Website: Kiel University – Cluster of Excellence ROOTS
- Official Notification Link: Click here
- Apply Now: Email application@roots.uni-kiel.de
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