Research Fellow in African Heritage at UCL, UK

University College London is inviting applications for a full-time Research Fellow in African Heritage, Remote Sensing and GIS within the Institute of Archaeology. The funded position supports the Mapping Africa’s Endangered Archaeological Sites and Monuments (MAEASaM) project.

The successful candidate will contribute to a major archaeological heritage research project documenting endangered archaeological sites across sub-Saharan Africa through remote sensing, GIS, historical map analysis, records-based research, and field verification. The role combines archaeological research, geospatial analysis, and collaboration with African heritage authorities to improve archaeological documentation and heritage management.

Building on this research programme, the postholder will undertake archaeological survey work, image interpretation, spatial data analysis, and heritage documentation while supporting collaborative research with national heritage organisations. The position also contributes to maintaining an Open Access archaeological database that supports long-term cultural heritage preservation and research across sub-Saharan Africa.

In addition to research activities, the appointment offers an opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading archaeology departments with an internationally recognised research environment. The project supports interdisciplinary research in African archaeology, cultural heritage, GIS, remote sensing, and archaeological field documentation while working alongside experienced researchers and heritage professionals.

Position Details

Position: Research Fellow in African Heritage, Remote Sensing and GIS
Institution: University College London (UCL), United Kingdom
Department: Institute of Archaeology, UCL SLASH
Research Discipline: Archaeology, African Heritage, Remote Sensing, GIS, Cultural Heritage
Location: London, United Kingdom (Hybrid)
Job Type: Research Fellow (Postdoctoral Research Position)
Contract Duration: 1 August 2026 – 30 June 2029
Start Date: August 2026
Working Hours: 36.5 hours per week
Salary/Funding: Grade 7.32 – £42,261 per year (including London Allowance); funded by Arcadia
Required Qualification: PhD in Archaeology, Anthropology, Geography, or Geospatial Sciences

Research Areas

The successful candidate will contribute to the following research areas while supporting the documentation, analysis, and conservation of endangered archaeological heritage across sub-Saharan Africa:

African Archaeology and Cultural Heritage Management
Archaeological Survey, Field Documentation, and Site Recording
Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Spatial Analysis
Image Interpretation, Historical Map Analysis, and Records-Based Research
Archaeological Heritage Documentation and Open Access Heritage Databases
Endangered Archaeological Sites and Heritage Conservation

Eligibility / Qualifications

Applicants should possess the following qualifications, technical expertise, and research experience:

A PhD in Archaeology, Anthropology, Geography, Geospatial Sciences, or a related subject
Research experience in archaeology, cultural heritage, or heritage management
Experience in archaeological fieldwork, documentation, survey methods, and archaeological mapping
Knowledge of remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatial analysis, and image interpretation
Experience using historical maps and records-based research for archaeological studies is desirable
Research experience related to sub-Saharan Africa is an advantage
Ability to work effectively within international and multidisciplinary research teams

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will:

Conduct remote sensing and GIS analysis for archaeological heritage research
Document endangered archaeological sites across sub-Saharan Africa
Perform archaeological survey and image interpretation
Analyse historical maps and archaeological records
Collaborate with African heritage management authorities
Support archaeological data management within the Open Access Arches database

Application Process

Applicants should submit a complete online application demonstrating how they meet the essential and desirable criteria outlined in the person specification.

Required documents include:

Full Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Cover letter addressing all essential and desirable criteria
Evidence of academic qualifications
Contact details for two referees, including the current or most recent line manager

Important Dates

Applications Open: Open now
Application Deadline: 26 July 2026
Interview Period: Not specified
Expected Start Date: August 2026

Apply Now

Applications remain open until 26 July 2026. Eligible candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date to ensure full consideration.

Related Academic Opportunities

Institutional Overview

University College London is one of the United Kingdom’s leading research universities and is recognised internationally for excellence across a wide range of academic disciplines. The Institute of Archaeology is the largest archaeology department in the UK and maintains an extensive international research community working across five continents. Its research covers archaeology, museum studies, cultural heritage, archaeological science, and heritage management through interdisciplinary collaboration. Researchers benefit from established partnerships, advanced research facilities, and opportunities to contribute to internationally significant archaeological projects addressing both historical and contemporary heritage challenges.

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