The University of Innsbruck is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral position (University Assistant) to join its Department of Archaeology in Innsbruck, Austria. The appointment will run for six years, beginning on 1 December 2026, and is a full-time role of 40 hours per week.
The post focuses on Historical Archaeology, with particular emphasis on social archaeology and digital methods for examining different forms of historical evidence. The research spans the Middle Ages to the present, with a particular focus on the recent past in Central Europe. It also encourages new approaches to interpreting the archaeological record.
The postdoctoral researcher will conduct independent research and contribute to projects led by the Chair. The role also includes publishing research, teaching and examining on the BA and MA Archaeologies programmes, supervising student theses, preparing external funding applications, and taking part in conferences, knowledge-transfer activities and academic administration.
Applicants should hold a doctorate or PhD in an archaeological discipline, with a thesis in Historical or Contemporary Archaeology. They should have research experience focused on the recent past in Central Europe, along with experience in fieldwork or project development. Familiarity with digital archaeology, data management, GIS, external funding, university teaching and thesis supervision would be an advantage.
Position Details
- Position: Postdoctoral position (University Assistant)
- Official Reference number: PHIL-HIST-16000
- Institution: University of Innsbruck, Austria
- Department: Department of Archaeology
- Research Discipline(s): Historical Archaeology, Social Archaeology, Contemporary Archaeology, Digital Archaeology
- Location: Innsbruck, Austria
- Job Type: Postdoc
- Contract Duration: 6 years
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week
- Salary/Funding: €5,014 gross per month, paid 14 times per year
- Required Qualification: PhD in an archaeological discipline
Research Areas
The position covers the following research areas.
- Historical Archaeology
- Social Archaeology
- Contemporary Archaeology
- Digital Archaeology
- Interdisciplinary source analysis
- Archaeological data management
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Historical archaeology of the recent past in Central Europe
Eligibility/Qualifications
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- Doctorate or PhD in an archaeological discipline, with a dissertation in Historical Archaeology or Contemporary Archaeology.
- Research experience in the historical archaeology of the recent past in Central Europe.
- Experience planning and conducting archaeological field research and transfer-oriented projects.
- Experience developing methodologies in Historical Archaeology or Digital Archaeology, including archaeological data management and GIS.
- Research interests aligned with the priorities of the Chair of Historical Archaeology.
- Experience in external research funding, university teaching and student thesis supervision is desirable.
- Strong teamwork, communication and organisational skills.
Salary and Benefits
The University of Innsbruck offers a minimum gross salary of €5,014 per month, paid 14 times a year under the 2026 collective agreement.
The position includes:
- An inclusive working environment that promotes equal opportunities and encourages applications from women and qualified candidates with disabilities or chronic illnesses
- Flexible working hours and a family-friendly working environment
- Training and professional development opportunities
- Paid lunch breaks and a meal allowance
- A range of additional staff benefits
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Conduct independent research in Historical Archaeology, with a focus on social archaeology and digital methods for interdisciplinary source analysis.
- Collaborate on projects run by the Chair of Historical Archaeology and help develop new methodological and theoretical approaches.
- Develop project concepts aligned with the Historical Archaeology research group’s research priorities.
- Publish research and contribute to teaching activities, including examinations within the BA and MA Archaeologies curriculum.
- Supervise or co-supervise student theses and contribute to academic self-governance.
- Seek external funding and contribute to conferences, knowledge-transfer events and other academic activities.
Application Process
Submit applications online through the University of Innsbruck’s career portal. Candidates should state the reference code PHIL-HIST-16000 when applying.
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Cover letter, maximum two pages
- CV, including a list of publications
- Outline of a proposed Historical Archaeology project, maximum two pages
- PhD thesis
- Degree certificates
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 23 October 2026
- Expected Start Date: 1 December 2026
Eligible candidates should submit their application through the official University of Innsbruck Career Portal.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Postdoctoral position worldwide
- Academic jobs in Austria
- Archaeology research positions
- Digital Archaeology research opportunities
- European Archaeology academic jobs
Frequently Asked Questions
What postdoctoral position is available at the University of Innsbruck?
The Department of Archaeology is hiring a University Assistant (postdoc) in Historical Archaeology.
When does the position start?
The expected start date is 1 December 2026.
How long is the contract?
The position is offered for six years.
What is the salary for the position?
The minimum gross salary is €5,014 per month, paid 14 times per year, based on the 2026 collective-agreement rate.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants must have a PhD in archaeology, with a dissertation in Historical or Contemporary Archaeology and research experience in the recent past of Central Europe.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by 23 October 2026, quoting the reference code PHIL-HIST-16000.
University of Innsbruck
The University of Innsbruck is a public university in Innsbruck, Austria, with a broad academic and research profile. It brings together teaching and research across numerous disciplines and supports international academic collaboration. Within the university, the Department of Archaeology contributes to teaching and research in areas including Historical Archaeology. Its work covers periods from the Middle Ages to the present and includes research into the recent past in Central Europe. The university also supports interdisciplinary approaches that bring together different forms of evidence and research methods. Through its academic programmes, research projects and wider scholarly activities, the University of Innsbruck provides an environment for researchers to develop their work alongside teaching, publication, student supervision and collaboration.
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