Research Positions in Archaeological Glass at The University of Cambridge, UK

Research Positions in Archaeological Glass at the University of Cambridge, UK

About Position/Job

The McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research at the University of Cambridge invites applications for a 24-month fixed-term position as a Research Assistant or Associate in Archaeological Glass. This role is part of the interdisciplinary ERC/UKRI-funded project ENTANGLED, led by Dr Abigail Moffett. The project explores material and cultural connections between southern Africa and the Indian Ocean World during the Global Middle Ages (500–1500 CE). The successful applicant will contribute to this innovative research by leading scientific analyses of archaeological glass from Mozambique and other parts of southern Africa.

Position/Job Details

Position: Research Assistant / Associate in Archaeological Glass
Institution: University of Cambridge
Department: McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research
Research field: Archaeology / Material Culture Studies / Archaeological Science
Location: Cambridge, United Kingdom
Number of post: 1
Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-term (24 months)
Start Date (Anticipated): October 1, 2025
Working Hours: Full-time
Salary Range:
- Research Assistant: £32,546 – £35,116
- Research Associate: £37,174 – £45,413
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD

Research Area

Archaeological glass analysis
Provenance and compositional studies
Global Middle Ages (500–1500 CE)
Material entanglements between Africa and Indian Ocean World
SEM-EDS and LA-ICP-MS analytical techniques

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD in archaeology or related field (or thesis submitted)
Experience in scientific analysis of archaeological materials, especially glass
Proficiency in techniques like SEM-EDS and LA-ICP-MS
Strong teamwork and collaborative skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Field experience in southern Africa
Familiarity with museum collections and archival research
Engagement with interdisciplinary and global historical approaches

Key Responsibilities

Lead analyses of glass beads and artefacts from southern Africa
Conduct compositional and technological assessments
Collaborate with researchers and institutions in Mozambique and the UK
Participate in fieldwork and data collection trips
Contribute to the ENTANGLED project’s broader research and dissemination goals

Application Process

How to Apply

Apply via the University of Cambridge online recruitment system. Click the “Apply” button on the job listing page to register and submit your application.