Research Assistant in Palaeoproteomics – UCPH

About the Position

The University of Copenhagen’s Globe Institute is inviting applications for a Research Assistant in Palaeoproteomics, commencing on 1 February 2026 or shortly thereafter. This role is part of the prestigious DFF Sapere Aude project “MiddleEarth”, which aims to uncover the hominin occupation histories in Central Eurasia through advanced palaeoproteomic methods. Working under the supervision of Dr Frido Welker, the position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research combining evolutionary biology, archaeology, and molecular sciences. The successful candidate will work within an international and interdisciplinary research team, developing and applying biomolecular techniques such as ZooMS and MALDI-ToF MS to ancient specimens, helping illuminate human evolutionary patterns across the Middle and Late Pleistocene.

Position/Job Details

Position: Research Assistant in Palaeoproteomics
Institution: University of Copenhagen
Department: Globe Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences
Research Field: Palaeoproteomics / Ancient Biomolecular Research
Location: Copenhagen, Denmark
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (2 years)
Start Date (Anticipated): February 2026
Working Hours: 37 hours per week
Salary Range: From 33,564.04 DKK/month (approx. 4,500 EUR) + 18.07% pension contribution
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s

Research Area

Palaeoproteomics
Ancient Biomolecular Research
Zooarchaeology
Human Evolution and Palaeoanthropology
Archaeological Science

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in Zooarchaeology, Archaeological Sciences, Ancient Biomolecular Research, or a closely related field.
Practical experience in biomolecular laboratory techniques such as ZooMS and MALDI-ToF MS analysis.
Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Preferred Qualifications:

Training or experience in applied zooarchaeology.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research setting.
Familiarity with database management and research documentation.

Key Responsibilities

Conduct ZooMS extractions and assist in amelogenin sexing analysis.
Manage and maintain the MiddleEarth project database.
Collaborate with project partners, including the Principal Investigator (PI) and postdoctoral researchers.
Participate in possible fieldwork or research travel to Central Eurasia.
Contribute to the MiddleEarth project’s biomolecular and archaeological research goals.