Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz is inviting applications for a Research Assistant (m/f/d) position in Prehistoric and Early Historic Archaeology. Based within the Department of Prehistoric and Early Historic Archaeology, the appointment is available from January 2027 and carries an initial three-year contract. Applications must be submitted by 1 July 2026.
The position supports academic qualification through habilitation while combining independent research with teaching, fieldwork, and departmental responsibilities. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing archaeological research projects, participate in educational excavations and excursions, publish research findings, and engage with international scholarly communities through conferences and academic collaboration.
The role is situated within a research-intensive environment that examines human history from the earliest archaeological evidence through the Middle Ages. Close cooperation with the Leibniz Centre for Archaeology provides opportunities for interdisciplinary research and professional development within one of Germany’s established centres for prehistoric and early historic archaeology.
Position Details
- Position: Research Assistant (m/f/d)
- Institution: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany
- Department: Department of Prehistoric and Early Historic Archaeology
- Research Discipline: Archaeology
- Location: Mainz, Germany
- Job Type: Researcher
- Contract Duration: Three years (initial appointment)
- Start Date: January 2027
- Working Hours: Full-time (100%)
- Salary/Funding: EG 13 TV-L
- Required Qualification: PhD in Prehistory and Early History or a closely related discipline
Positions at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz attract applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, depending on the research area and institutional requirements.
Research Area
- Prehistoric Archaeology
- Early Historic Archaeology
- Neolithic Archaeology
- Archaeological Fieldwork
- Archaeological Excavation
- Archaeological Prospection
- Human History and Cultural Development
- Interdisciplinary Archaeological Research
Eligibility and Qualifications
- Completed university degree and above-average PhD in Prehistory and Early History.
- Research specialisation in the Neolithic period preferred.
- Interest in pursuing a habilitation or equivalent academic qualification.
- Experience in archaeological fieldwork, prospection, and excavation projects.
- Teaching experience in prehistoric and early historic archaeology.
- Good German and English language skills (minimum B2 level).
- Experience working in interdisciplinary research environments.
- Strong organisational, communication, and teamwork skills.
- Must meet recruitment requirements under Section 57 of the Higher Education Act of Rhineland-Palatinate.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver four semester hours of teaching per week
- Plan and conduct educational excavations and academic excursions
- Support the organisation of teaching and research activities
- Participate in ongoing departmental research projects
- Conduct independent research as part of a habilitation programme
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at international conferences
Application Process
Interested applicants should submit a complete application through the university’s online recruitment system before the closing date. Applications should clearly demonstrate academic qualifications, research experience, and suitability for the position.
Required documents include:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Copy of doctoral dissertation
- Relevant employment certificates
- Academic qualification certificates
- German recognition documents where applicable
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Currently Open
- Application Deadline: 1 July 2026 (Europe/Berlin Time Zone)
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Expected Start Date: January 2027
Applications for this archaeology research position will be accepted until 1 July 2026. Candidates interested in pursuing postdoctoral academic development and habilitation in Germany should submit their applications before the deadline.
Related Academic Opportunities
- International Archaeology Jobs
- Prehistoric Archaeology Positions
- Research Opportunities in Germany
- Global Research Jobs
- Academic Positions in Europe
- Fully Funded Postdoctoral Fellowships in Germany
Institutional Overview
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz is one of Germany’s largest universities and forms part of the Rhine-Main science region. As a comprehensive university, it supports interdisciplinary teaching and research across a broad range of academic disciplines. The university brings together most of its institutes on a single campus near the centre of Mainz, creating an active academic environment for researchers, teaching staff, and students from around the world. The Department of Prehistoric and Early Historic Archaeology maintains a strong research profile through its collaboration with the Leibniz Centre for Archaeology, supporting research and training across prehistoric archaeology, early historic archaeology, archaeological fieldwork, and interdisciplinary archaeological research.
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