Research Associate in Luminescence Dating

The University of Leicester, is inviting applications for a Research Associate in Luminescence Dating and Geochronology. This position is part of the Leverhulme Trust-funded project Only the scatters remain: a new approach to surface archaeology in deserts.” It is based in the School/Division of Chemical, Earth and Environmental Sciences and focuses on luminescence dating, geochronology, and the investigation of archaeological remains in desert environments.

The successful candidate will lead luminescence sample preparation and analysis and develop field methods to assess stone-tool scatters. They will also conduct fieldwork in the Karoo Desert of South Africa. The university offers a fixed-term contract running from January 2027 to December 2029, with full-time and job-share options. The annual salary is £40,704, subject to external funding restrictions.

Applicants must hold a PhD, an equivalent professional qualification, or have equivalent experience in a relevant discipline. They should also have practical experience in luminescence dating, strong analytical skills, and fieldwork experience in geology, geography, or archaeology.

Position Details

Position: Research Associate
Official Reference Number: 13992
Institution: University of Leicester, United Kingdom
School/Division: Chemical, Earth and Environmental Sciences
Research Discipline(s): Geochronology, Luminescence Dating, Archaeology, Geomorphology, Earth Sciences
Location: Leicester, United Kingdom
Job Type: Research Associate
Contract Duration: 3 years, fixed-term
Start Date: 1 January 2027
End Date: 31 December 2029
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Required Qualification: PhD
Salary: £40,704 per annum
Application Deadline: 26 October 2026, midnight

Research Areas

Luminescence dating and geochronology
Surface archaeology and lithic scatters
Desert geomorphology
Landscape stability and surface processes
Archaeological science

Eligibility and Qualifications

Applicants should demonstrate the following qualifications and experience:

A PhD, an equivalent professional qualification, or equivalent experience in an appropriate discipline.
Practical experience with luminescence dating methods.
A strong understanding of the underlying theory of luminescence dating.
Expertise in relevant analytical approaches.
Contributions to peer-reviewed publications or equivalent technical outputs.
Proven analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
Fieldwork experience in geological, geographical, or archaeological research.
Excellent communication skills, including the ability to explain complex information clearly.
The ability to work independently and collaboratively with interdisciplinary colleagues.
Willingness and ability to undertake extended periods of overseas fieldwork.

Experience of fieldwork in relatively remote locations and budget management would be advantageous.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Associate will contribute to the delivery of the Leverhulme Trust-funded project through the following activities:

Leading luminescence sample preparation and analysis.
Developing and applying approaches to investigate the stability and chronology of desert land surfaces.
Supporting the rapid evaluation and interpretation of surface scatters of stone tools.
Participating in fieldwork in the interior Karoo Desert of South Africa.
Working with archaeologists, geomorphologists, and geochronologists.
Contributing to research on geomorphic processes and the preservation or erosion of lithic scatters.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers an annual salary of £40,704, with part-time salaries calculated on a pro-rata basis.

Benefits include:

Pension scheme.
Generous annual leave.
Professional development opportunities.
A collaborative working environment.

The role is available on a full-time or job-share basis. Existing University of Leicester staff may also be considered for a secondment, subject to university procedures and prior discussion with their line manager.

Important Dates

Application Deadline: 26 October 2026
Contract Start Date: 1 January 2027
Contract End Date: 31 December 2029

Application Process

Interested candidates should visit the official vacancy link below for application instructions and required documents. Applications must be submitted through the University of Leicester’s recruitment portal.

View & Apply

For informal enquiries, contact Dr Andrew Carr at asc18@leicester.ac.uk.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the focus of the Only the scatters remain project?
The project investigates the processes that preserve or erode surface scatters of stone tools in desert environments and develops rapid field methods to identify sites suitable for detailed archaeological analysis and dating.

Where will the fieldwork take place?
The position is based at the University of Leicester, UK, with fieldwork conducted in the interior Karoo Desert of South Africa.

Which technical expertise is essential for this role?
Applicants must have practical experience in luminescence dating methods, a strong understanding of the underlying theory, and expertise in relevant analytical approaches.

Is experience working in remote field locations required?
Fieldwork experience in geological, geographical, or archaeological research is required. Experience in relatively remote locations is advantageous, and candidates must be willing and able to undertake extended periods of overseas fieldwork.

Can existing university staff members apply through a secondment?
Yes. Existing university staff members may be considered for the position on a seconded basis. They should discuss the arrangement with their line manager before applying.