Research Assistant in Archaeometallurgy (Fixed Term)

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 September 2026 in the first instance.

The McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research invites applications for a fixed-term Research Assistant in Archaeometallurgy. The post holder will work as part of the ERC Advanced Grant funded project: Reverse Engineering Collective Action: Complex Technologies in Stateless Societies (REVERSEACTION) led by Prof Marcos Martinón-Torres (PI).

This is a unique opportunity to join a leading team of archaeological scientists and other researchers, and to be exposed to a great variety of research materials, methods, questions and approaches in a multinational environment. We seek a rigorous, creative and collaborative researcher who is keen to both benefit from, and contribute to, our critical mass. 

The post holder is expected to work primarily at the McDonald Institute in Cambridge but also including other Departments and possible research trips to Colombia.

Key responsibilities will include the metallographic and SEM-EDS characterisation of pre-Hispanic gold artefacts from Colombia, as well as the analysis of these and other data derived from the analysis of goldwork, and assistance with the interpretation and reporting of these analyses. The ability to work as part of a diverse team, sharing ideas and data, is essential.

Starting date: 1 July 2025, or as soon as possibly thereafter.

The post is suitable for applicants with a degree in archaeology, materials science, or a related field, with excellent organisation skills and attention to detail, ability to work on their own initiative and multi-task as part of a team. Familiarity with field of metallurgy, data management and analysis, are essential. Candidates should be committed to open science and to improving inclusion and diversity in research.

We particularly welcome applications from candidate from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our department.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click the 'Apply' button above. 

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Prof. Marcos Martinon-Torres m.martinon-torres@arch.cam.ac.uk

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact the HR team on hr@hsps.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference JC45852 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

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