The McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research at the University of Cambridge is inviting applications for a Research Assistant / Research Associate in Prehistoric Cycladic Archaeometallurgy. The full-time, fixed-term position is based in Cambridge, UK, and is funded by the Leventis Foundation and the McDonald Institute. Funding is available for 24 months in the first instance.
The research focuses on metallic and metallurgical materials from excavations at Ayia Irini on the Cycladic island of Kea, Greece. The researcher will carry out scientific analysis and interpretation of the material and prepare the results for publication.
The researcher will work closely with Professor Cyprian Broodbank, Disney Professor of Archaeology and Director of the McDonald Institute, and Professor Marcos Martinón-Torres, Pitt-Rivers Professor of Archaeological Science, at the University of Cambridge. Professor Natalie Abell of the University of Michigan and Dr Evangelia Kiriatzi of the British School at Athens will provide additional supervision from outside Cambridge.
Applicants should have experience in both Cycladic Prehistory and archaeometallurgy and be highly organised and self-driven. A relevant PhD is required for appointment as a Research Associate by the start of the post. Candidates who have submitted their thesis but are still awaiting the PhD award may initially be appointed as a Research Assistant and move to Research Associate once the PhD has been awarded.
Position Details
- Job Title: Research Assistant / Research Associate in Prehistoric Cycladic Archaeometallurgy
- Institution: University of Cambridge
- Department: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
- Location: Cambridge, UK
- Research Area: Cycladic Prehistory and Archaeometallurgy
- Position Type: Full-time, fixed-term
- Duration: 24 months in the first instance
- Starting Date: 1 December 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
- Salary: £34,610–£35,608 (Research Assistant); £37,694–£46,049 (Research Associate)
- Reference: JC51118
- Published: 17 September 2026
- Closing Date: 23 October 2026
Research Areas
- Cycladic Prehistory
- Archaeometallurgy
- Archaeological Science
- Prehistoric Metallurgy
- Scientific Analysis of Archaeological Materials
- Aegean Archaeology
Eligibility / Qualification
- A relevant PhD by the start of the appointment for Research Associate level.
- Research experience in materials science, particularly archaeometallurgy.
- Experience in Aegean Bronze Age prehistory.
- Extensive prior work in the Cyclades.
- The ability to work independently while working under supervision.
- Strong organisational skills.
Salary and Benefits
The salary depends on the level of appointment:
- Research Assistant: £34,610–£35,608
- Research Associate: £37,694–£46,049
- The post is funded for 24 months in the first instance.
The role also provides opportunities for collaboration, training and publication within the interdisciplinary research community at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research.
Research Responsibilities
- Characterising metallic and archaeometallurgical materials using optical microscopy, SEM-EDS and pXRF.
- Analysing new and legacy data, including trace element and lead isotope data, within their wider cultural and chronological contexts.
- Leading and contributing to project publications and presenting research at conferences.
- Planning and organising study and sampling visits and maintaining the materials and samples database.
- Taking part in project meetings, research trips and discussions on methodology, model design and interpretation.
- Following ethics approvals and data management protocols and undertaking relevant training and professional development.
Application Process
Applicants should apply online through the University of Cambridge recruitment system. The application should include the required supporting documents and quote reference JC51118.
Required Documents
- CV
- Covering letter
- Writing sample of no more than 5,000 words
Important Dates
- Published: 17 September 2026
- Deadline: 23 October 2026
- Interview Period: Week of 26 October 2026 or shortly thereafter
- Expected Start Date: 1 December 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
Eligible candidates can apply online through the official University of Cambridge recruitment system.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology research positions worldwide
- UK academic research jobs
- European academic opportunities
- Prehistory research positions
- Research Assistant opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the research area of the position?
The position focuses on Prehistoric Cycladic Archaeometallurgy, including the scientific analysis and interpretation of metallic and metallurgical material from Ayia Irini on Kea, Greece.
Where is the position based?
The position is based at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research in Cambridge, UK.
How long is the contract?
The funds for the post are available for 24 months in the first instance.
Is a PhD required?
A relevant PhD is required by the start of the appointment for Research Associate status. Candidates who have submitted their thesis but are awaiting the award may initially be appointed as Research Assistant.
What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit a CV, covering letter and a writing sample of no more than 5,000 words.
What is the application deadline?
The closing date is 23 October 2026.
Institutional Overview
The McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research is part of the University of Cambridge and is based in Cambridge, UK. The institute brings together archaeologists and researchers from different fields to study the human past. Its work covers many periods, regions and areas of archaeology. Researchers at the institute use archaeological evidence alongside scientific and other research methods. The institute also supports research, teaching, training, collaboration and the publication of academic work. Its researchers work with colleagues and institutions in the UK and other countries. The McDonald Institute provides space for researchers to share ideas, develop projects and work with specialists from different areas of archaeology.
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