About the Position
Queen’s University Belfast invites applications for a Research Fellow (Postdoctoral) position in Archaeology & Material Sciences. This position focuses on Radiocarbon Analysis within the 14CHRONO team at the Institute for Heritage and Environmental Sciences, RICHeS facility, Belfast, Northern Ireland. Specifically, the role involves developing thermally-driven molecular separation methods and advanced analytical techniques for radiocarbon dating of complex archaeological and environmental samples.
The successful candidate will lead independent research, while also collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and contributing to high-impact publications. Moreover, they will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including TG-MS, ATR-FTIR, ramped pyrolysis/combustion-IRMS, and graphite lines, thereby supporting cutting-edge research in archaeology and material sciences.
The postholder will design and implement innovative sample pre-treatment and molecular separation protocols. Additionally, they will apply supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and mass spectrometry to improve dating accuracy for contaminated or mixed samples. The position spans both heritage and environmental applications, therefore generating research outputs that strengthen Queen’s University Belfast’s international reputation. Engagement in grant applications, collaboration with research networks, and dissemination of results through peer-reviewed journals and conferences is expected.
This opportunity is suitable for candidates with a PhD in Archaeology, Material Sciences, or related disciplines. Furthermore, expertise in isotope geochemistry, molecular characterisation, and computational analysis of multivariate chromatographic datasets is essential. Hands-on laboratory experience and a proven publication record are required. In addition, collaborative international research is encouraged, while mentoring, professional development, and networking opportunities are embedded. Applicants can also explore other fully funded postdoctoral research fellowships and academic roles for global researchers.
Program / Job Details
- Position: Research Fellow
- Institution: Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
- Department: Institute for Heritage and Environmental Sciences, RICHeS facility
- Research Field: Radiocarbon Analysis / Archaeology / Material Sciences
- Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK
- Job Type: Full-time / Fixed-term
- Number of Positions: 1
- Start Date: Flexible, 2026
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary / Funding: £41,519–£49,536 per annum
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD
This fully funded academic position in Radiocarbon Analysis at Queen’s University Belfast is open for one candidate starting in 2026. Explore more fully funded research opportunities in the UK to advance your career.
Research Area
The research project focuses on:
- Thermally-driven molecular separation for radiocarbon dating
- Archaeological sample analysis
- Environmental sample analysis
- Advanced mass spectrometry techniques
- Isotope geochemistry and stable isotope analysis
- Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) methods
- Analytical tool development: TG-MS, ATR-FTIR, ramped pyrolysis/combustion-IRMS
Explore more research opportunities in Archaeological Sciences to advance your career.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Archaeology, Material Sciences, or related discipline
- Strong academic and research background in Radiocarbon Analysis / Material Science
- Demonstrated technical expertise in molecular separation and characterisation
- Proficiency in English for academic communication
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and advanced laboratory techniques
- Peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations
- Experience in international collaborative research
- Advanced computational analysis of mass spectrometric datasets
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research in Radiocarbon Analysis
- Collaborate with international research teams across disciplines
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences
- Develop and validate analytical and sample pre-treatment methods
- Participate in teaching or supervision duties if required
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online via the official Queen’s University Belfast portal.
Required Documents:
- CV / Resume
- Motivation / Cover Letter
- Academic Transcripts
- References / Recommendation Letters
- Proof of language proficiency (if required)
- Publication list (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 02 March 2026
- Application Deadline: 09 March 2026 (GMT)
- Interview Period: To be confirmed
- Expected Start Date: 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: Queen’s University Belfast
- Department Information: Institute for Heritage and Environmental Sciences, RICHeS Facility
- Official Job Announcement: QUB Careers – Job Profile
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries: careers@qub.ac.uk
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded postdoctoral positions, international academic collaboration, and access to world-class research facilities in the UK. Explore more postdoctoral fellowships, funded PhD opportunities, and academic jobs for international researchers.
