Newcastle University invites applications for a Research Assistant/Associate in Archaeology (Fieldwork). The post forms part of the AHRC-funded Ecologies of Governance project. It runs for 30 months and is based in Newcastle. Applications close on 11 June 2026. The role focuses on early medieval archaeology, fieldwork, and GIS-based landscape research.
The position is hosted in the School of History, Classics and Archaeology. It forms part of a wider study of early medieval Britain and Ireland. The project examines how inequality developed and how rulership systems took shape. The postholder works with teams at Newcastle University, Queen’s University Belfast, and Cardiff University. The project integrates field evidence with environmental and spatial datasets to reconstruct early medieval landscapes.
The role involves planning and conducting archaeological fieldwork. This includes geophysical survey, topographic recording, and targeted excavation. The postholder builds and maintains GIS datasets for past landscape analysis. They record, manage, and interpret field data for research outputs. The role also includes reporting findings and supporting publications. Depending on level, the postholder may lead fieldwork design and data interpretation.
Position Details
- Position: Research Assistant / Research Associate in Archaeology (Fieldwork)
- Institution: Newcastle University, United Kingdom
- Department: School of History, Classics and Archaeology
- Research Discipline: Early Medieval Archaeology; Landscape Archaeology; Geoarchaeology
- Location: Newcastle, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Research Assistant / Research Associate (Fixed-term Research Post)
- Contract Duration: Up to 30 months
- Start Date: As soon as possible after appointment
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary/Funding:
- Research Assistant: £33,951 – £35,608 per annum
- Research Associate: £36,636 – £38,784 per annum
- Required Qualification:
- Research Assistant: Honours degree in Archaeology or related discipline
- Research Associate: PhD in Archaeology or related discipline
Research Area
- Early medieval archaeology of Britain and Ireland
- Royal landscapes and governance systems
- Archaeological field survey and excavation
- Geophysical and topographic survey methods
- GIS and spatial data analysis
- Environmental and multi-proxy landscape archaeology
Eligibility / Qualifications
- Demonstrated ability to apply archaeological fieldwork methods in excavation and survey contexts
- Experience in geophysical survey and topographic recording techniques
- Competence in developing and managing GIS databases for archaeological research
- Ability to analyse spatial and environmental datasets with methodological accuracy
- Strong written and oral communication skills for academic dissemination
- Proven ability to work effectively within interdisciplinary research teams
- PhD in Archaeology or a closely related discipline (required for Research Associate level)
- Evidence of independent research capability, where applicable
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement archaeological fieldwork strategies across project sites
- Conduct geophysical and topographic surveys in early medieval landscapes
- Undertake targeted excavation and associated field documentation
- Develop and maintain GIS systems integrating multi-source archaeological datasets
- Analyse spatial and archaeological data to support research objectives
- Contribute to academic outputs, including publications, reports, and conference presentations
Application Process
Applicants must demonstrate relevant experience in archaeological fieldwork and GIS-based research. Selection evaluates technical expertise, analytical ability, and alignment with early medieval archaeology.
Required documents:
- Updated CV
- Cover letter addressing essential criteria
- Academic qualifications
- Evidence of fieldwork experience
- Publication list (for Research Associate applicants, if applicable)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 22 May 2026
- Application Deadline: 11 June 2026 (UK time)
- Interview Period: To be confirmed
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible after the appointment
Candidates should apply before the deadline due to strong international competition for archaeological research positions in UK universities.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology Research Jobs
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- UK University Academic Jobs & Research Positions
Institutional Overview
Newcastle University is a public research university in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom, with a strong reputation for interdisciplinary research and teaching excellence. It is part of the Russell Group of UK universities, reflecting its focus on high-impact research across fields such as medicine, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. The university maintains extensive collaborations with industry, government, and international partners, supporting applied research and innovation. Its campus combines historic architecture with modern facilities, providing an academic environment that supports both undergraduate and postgraduate study.
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