Newcastle University is recruiting a Research Assistant/Associate in Archaeology for the Leverhulme Trust-funded CLASS project in the United Kingdom. The full-time research position offers up to 36 months of funding, a salary of up to £38,784 per year, and the opportunity to contribute to archaeological fieldwork, GIS analysis, and landscape research in early medieval Northumbria.
Funded by the Leverhulme Trust, the CLASS project focuses on early medieval Northumbria. It explores how changing landscapes and environmental conditions shaped past communities and societies. The successful candidate will play a key role in archaeological fieldwork, GIS development, landscape analysis, and heritage engagement across northern Bernicia (modern northern Northumberland).
This exciting position offers the opportunity to work within a collaborative research environment involving Newcastle University and Northumbria University, contributing to innovative archaeological and environmental research.
Position Details
- Position: Research Assistant/Associate in Archaeology (Fieldwork)
- Institution: Newcastle University, United Kingdom
- Department: School of History, Classics and Archaeology
- Research Discipline: Archaeology, Landscape Archaeology, Heritage Studies
- Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Researcher
- Contract Duration: Up to 36 Months (Ending 30 September 2029)
- Start Date: October 2026
- Working Hours: Full-Time
- Salary/Funding:
- Research Assistant: £33,951 – £35,608 per annum
- Research Associate: £36,636 – £38,784 per annum
- Required Qualification:
- Research Assistant: Honours Degree in Archaeology or related discipline
- Research Associate: PhD in Archaeology or related discipline
- Positions at Newcastle University attract applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, depending on the research area and institutional requirements.
Research Area
- Landscape Archaeology
- Early Medieval Archaeology
- Archaeological Fieldwork
- Historic Landscape Analysis
- Geophysical Survey
- GIS and Spatial Analysis
- Archaeological Remote Sensing
- Photogrammetry
- Heritage Management
- Paleoenvironmental Research
Eligibility/Qualifications
- Honours degree in Archaeology or a closely related discipline.
- PhD in Archaeology or related field (required for Research Associate level).
- Experience developing GIS databases for archaeological research.
- Knowledge of geospatial analysis and landscape modelling.
- Experience with archaeological fieldwork programmes.
- Experience conducting geophysical surveys.
- Experience in topographic and photogrammetric survey techniques.
- Ability to process and interpret archaeological datasets.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Experience writing research reports and publications.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary research teams.
- Proficiency in standard office and research software applications.
- Experience with archaeological remote sensing techniques.
- UAV (drone) experience for archaeological research is desirable.
- A2 Certificate of Competence (A2 CofC) is desirable.
- Up-to-date Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) training is desirable.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain a comprehensive project GIS integrating archaeological datasets.
- Design, coordinate, and deliver archaeological fieldwork programmes, including geophysical and topographic surveys.
- Process, analyse, and interpret geospatial, geophysical, and archaeological data.
- Engage with heritage stakeholders regarding site access, data collection, and research outcomes.
- Contribute to research publications, reports, conference presentations, and project dissemination activities.
- Support funding applications and contribute to the ongoing development of research methodologies and project objectives.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their application through Newcastle University’s recruitment system. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate clearly how their qualifications, fieldwork experience, and research expertise align with the requirements of the CLASS project.
Required documents include:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter addressing the essential selection criteria
- Academic qualifications documentation (if requested)
- Supporting information relevant to the role
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 28 May 2026
- Application Deadline: 22 June 2026 (UK Time)
- Interview Period: To Be Announced
- Expected Start Date: October 2026
Apply Early as Competition for This Fully Funded Archaeology Research Position Is Expected to Be High.
Related Academic Opportunities
- International Archaeology Positions
- Global Research Opportunities
- UK Academic Careers
- European University Jobs
Institutional Overview
Newcastle University is one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities and a founding member of the Russell Group. Established in 1834, the university is recognized globally for its excellence in teaching, innovation, and impactful research across fields such as engineering, medicine, business, social sciences, and the humanities. With a diverse community of more than 28,000 students from over 130 countries, Newcastle University offers a world-class learning environment, modern facilities, and strong industry connections that enhance graduate employability. Located in the vibrant city of Newcastle upon Tyne, the university combines academic excellence with an outstanding student experience, making it a popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education in the United Kingdom
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