The University of British Columbia (UBC) is offering a Zooarchaeology Research Assistant position. This is a part-time appointment based in the Department of Anthropology at its Vancouver campus in British Columbia, Canada. Three vacancies are available, with the appointment continuing until April 2027.
The position supports the Multispecies Archaeology Research Group (MARG), contributing to the assessment, documentation and management of zooarchaeological collections housed within the Laboratory of Archaeology. The Research Assistant will assist with anatomical assessments, inventory recording, research group coordination, participant procedures, laboratory supplies and data storage, following established protocols under supervision.
Within this research context, the position contributes to the careful assessment and management of archaeological collections, many of which have high cultural value. The role requires accurate documentation and respectful treatment of collections, research results and participants while supporting ongoing research activities.
Position details
- Job Title: Zooarchaeology Research Assistant
- Institution: University of British Columbia
- Department: Anthropology
- Research Group: Multispecies Archaeology Research Group (MARG)
- Location: UBC Vancouver Campus, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Employment Type: Part-time
- Job Category: CUPE 116
- Job Profile: CUPE 116 Hourly – Research Assistant / Technician 1
- Contract End Date: 30 April 2027
- Vacancies: 3
- Salary: $27.07–$28.40 CAD per hour
- Requisition ID: JR25886
Research Areas
- Zooarchaeology
- Archaeology
- Anthropology
- Archaeological collections
- Anatomical assessment
- Multispecies archaeology
Eligibility and Qualifications
Applicants must have:
- High school graduation and at least one year of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives that may conflict with their own.
- A commitment to developing awareness, knowledge and skills related to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Preferred qualifications
An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline, preferably Anthropology, is preferred. Experience coordinating social sciences research is also considered an advantage.
Applicants should have relevant computer and data-analysis skills, including experience with word processing, Excel, reference-management software or RStudio. Strong interpersonal and organisational skills, attention to detail, flexibility and the ability to manage multiple projects are also preferred.
Key Responsibilities
The Research Assistant will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator of MARG and interact with student researchers and other members of the research team.
Key responsibilities include:
- Organising, preparing and undertaking collection assessments.
- Preparing forms and other assessment materials.
- Contacting and scheduling research group members, volunteers, honours students and visiting researchers.
- Running participants through established standard operating procedures.
- Recording zooarchaeological inventory data.
- Supporting anatomical assessments.
- Maintaining laboratory supplies and caring for data storage.
- Following established laboratory protocols and guidelines for the integrity and respectful treatment of results and participants.
Application Process
Candidates should apply online through the University of British Columbia’s official employment portal using the Apply option for the Zooarchaeology Research Assistant position (JR25886).
Applications must be submitted by 29 September 2026 at 11:59 PM. For the official vacancy details, application instructions and submission portal, see View & Apply below.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Archaeology research jobs
- Anthropology research positions
- Research assistant positions
- Academic research opportunities
- Cultural heritage research jobs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the position title?
The position is Zooarchaeology Research Assistant.
Where is the position based?
The role is based at the University of British Columbia Vancouver Campus in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Which department offers the position?
The position is within the Department of Anthropology and works with the Multispecies Archaeology Research Group.
What qualification is required?
Applicants need high school graduation and at least one year of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
What is the salary for the position?
The salary is $27.07–$28.40 CAD per hour.
When does the application close?
Applications close on 29 September 2026 at 11:59 PM.
About the University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a global centre for research and teaching, with its Vancouver campus located in British Columbia, Canada. The university describes its community as comprising students, faculty and staff committed to research, innovation and learning. This position is based within the Department of Anthropology and supports research activities through the Multispecies Archaeology Research Group (MARG). The role also involves work with the Laboratory of Archaeology, where the relevant zooarchaeological collections are housed. UBC highlights equity and diversity as important to academic excellence and encourages applications from qualified candidates. Canadians and permanent residents are given priority for this position.
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