About the Position
The University of Cambridge invites applications for a funded Research Associate position in Palaeolithic archaeology and mechanical engineering at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research. This role forms part of the AHRC-funded project The Mechanical Optimisation of Stone Technologies by Early Humans in Africa, led by Dr Alastair Key in collaboration with Prof Maria Charalambides (Imperial College London). The project uses finite element analysis (FEA) to investigate Stone Age tool design, early human technological capabilities, and the structural optimisation of lithic artefacts.
The successful candidate will join a collaborative, interdisciplinary team of engineers and archaeologists, leading the structural analysis of lithic artefacts. Responsibilities include processing existing and new 3D scans, conducting FEA, training six postgraduate students in computational methods, and contributing to high-impact publications. Participation in project meetings, international conferences, and knowledge exchange activities will further support career development, professional networking, and the dissemination of research findings globally.
Applicants must hold a PhD in mechanical engineering, Palaeolithic archaeology, or related disciplines and demonstrate expertise in finite element modelling. Strong communication skills, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to mentor students are essential. Experience with modern or ancient tool design is advantageous.
This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 18 months with a competitive salary and 41 days of annual leave. Candidates gain access to international research networks, advanced methodological training, and the opportunity to advance archaeological and engineering research worldwide, making a significant contribution to understanding early human innovation.
Explore fully funded archaeology research positions, postdoctoral fellowships, and academic jobs for international scholars worldwide.
Program / Job Details
- Position: Research Associate in Structural Analysis of Palaeolithic Tools
- Institution: University of Cambridge, UK
- Department: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
- Research Field: Palaeolithic archaeology and mechanical engineering
- Supervisor: Dr Alastair Key
- Location: Cambridge
- Country: UK
- Job Type: Full-time, fixed-term
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: ASAP, 2026
- Working Hours: 37.5 per week
- Salary / Funding: £37,694–£46,049 (Research Associate level)
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD in mechanical engineering, Palaeolithic archaeology, or related discipline
Explore fully funded research positions and academic opportunities at the University of Cambridge, UK, and advance your research career.
Research Area
The research project focuses on:
- Structural optimisation of Stone Age tools
- Finite element analysis (FEA) of lithic artefacts
- Integration of archaeological data with computational models
- Use of 3D scanning and structural simulation datasets
- Geographic focus: Africa, Stone Age archaeology
Explore advanced Palaeolithic archaeology research jobs, postdoctoral positions, and academic careers for scholars.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in mechanical engineering, Palaeolithic archaeology, or related discipline
- Proven expertise in finite element analysis
- Ability to mentor and train postgraduate students in FEA
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in tool design analysis (ancient or modern)
- Strong interdisciplinary collaboration and communication skills
- Record of academic publications or research outputs
Find more Research Associate and Postdoctoral positions around the world and advance your research career.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead FEA of Stone Age lithic artefacts
- Process and collect 3D scans of archaeological tools
- Train six postgraduate students in finite element methods
- Collaborate with archaeologists and engineers on research publications
- Participate in project meetings, conferences, and knowledge exchange
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents through the official portal listed below.
Required Documents:
- CV / Resume
- Cover Letter
- Academic Transcripts
- List of Publications (if applicable)
- References
Important Dates:
- Applications Open: 16 March 2026
- Application Deadline: 15 April 2026 (UK Time)
- Expected Start Date: 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Cambridge
- Department / Research Group: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
- Official Job Announcement: Research Associate – Structural Analysis of Palaeolithic Tools
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries:
- Email: ak2389@cam.ac.uk (role queries)
- HR Email: hr@hsps.cam.ac.uk
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking funded research roles, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advanced archaeological research opportunities in the UK. Explore more postdoctoral fellowships, funded PhD positions, and academic jobs for international researchers.
