The University of Sheffield is inviting applications for a Support Technician: Research (Human Osteology) within the School of Biosciences. This full-time, fixed-term position supports a funded Heritage Science Data Service (HSDS) project that aims to preserve archaeological human osteology records through effective research data management and digital archiving.
The successful candidate will work with information derived from approximately 2,000 individuals across more than 50 archaeological sites previously curated by the University’s Department of Archaeology. The project focuses on organising research records, creating metadata, documenting collections, and preparing archaeological information for long-term preservation within the Heritage Science Data Service repository.
As part of the project team, the post holder will collaborate with University and HSDS staff to identify suitable material for archiving, improve database organisation, and prepare documentation that meets recognised archival standards. The role supports archaeological research by improving the accessibility and long-term preservation of valuable human osteology data.
The successful applicant will also prepare metadata, record collection information, and deposit approved research materials within the Heritage Science Data Service repository. The position requires excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and experience working with archaeological human remains data while maintaining appropriate ethical standards.
Key Details
- Position: Support Technician: Research (Human Osteology)
- Institution: University of Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Department: School of Biosciences
- Research Focus: Human Osteology, Bioarchaeology, Archaeology, Heritage Science, Research Data Management
- Location: Sheffield, United Kingdom
- Job Type: Research Support Technician
- Contract Duration: Fixed-term (6 months)
- Start Date: August 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
- Working Hours: 35 hours per week (Full-time)
- Salary/Funding: £25,249 per annum (HSDS-funded project)
- Required Qualification: GCSE or equivalent Level 2 qualification in English and Biology or History
Research Disciplines
This position contributes to work in the following disciplines:
- Human Osteology and Bioarchaeology
- Archaeological Human Remains
- Digital Archaeology and Heritage Science
- Research Data Management and Digital Preservation
- Metadata Creation and Archaeological Archives
- Heritage Science Data Services
Eligibility / Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- GCSE or equivalent Level 2 qualification in English and Biology or History.
- Knowledge of data produced through human osteoarchaeological analysis.
- Foundational understanding of destructive and non-destructive analyses of archaeological human remains, including stable-isotope analysis and radiology.
- Familiarity with FAIR data management principles.
- Experience managing multiple digital file formats, including DICOM, DOCX and PDF.
- Excellent attention to detail with strong organisational and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Deep understanding of ethical considerations surrounding the storage, sharing, and curation of human remains.
- Desirable knowledge of Archaeology Data Service guidance, GDPR, intellectual property, and copyright requirements.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
- Organise and review historical human osteology digital files and archaeological datasets.
- Identify research data suitable for deposit within the Heritage Science Data Service.
- Produce and organise metadata following recognised archival and accessibility standards.
- Support the development and improvement of the project database with project and HSDS staff.
- Prepare datasets and documentation for long-term digital preservation and public accessibility.
- Deposit completed datasets and associated metadata into the Heritage Science Data Service repository.
Application Process
Applicants should complete the University’s online application and clearly demonstrate how they meet the essential selection criteria outlined for the position. The application statement should provide evidence of relevant qualifications, technical knowledge, and experience in archaeological data management and human osteology.
Required documents include:
- Completed online application form
- Supporting application statement
- Educational qualifications
- Employment history
- Any additional documentation requested during the recruitment process
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 25 June 2026
- Application Deadline: 9 July 2026
- Interview Period: Expected within two weeks following the closing date
- Expected Start Date: August 2026
Applications close on 9 July 2026, and interested candidates should submit their application before the deadline to be considered for this fixed-term research support opportunity.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Human Osteology and Bioarchaeology Jobs
- Archaeology Academic and Research Jobs
- Academic Support Staff Careers in Archaeology
- Higher Education jobs in the UK
- Digital Archaeology jobs
Institutional Overview
The University of Sheffield is a public research university in Sheffield, England, with a strong reputation for teaching, research, and academic excellence. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes across a wide range of disciplines, including biosciences, archaeology, engineering, health, social sciences, and the humanities. The University supports research through modern facilities, specialist laboratories, libraries, and collaborative partnerships in the UK and internationally. Its research community contributes to scientific discovery, cultural understanding, and innovation while providing students and researchers with opportunities for academic and professional development.
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