Research Associate (Fixed Term)

Applications are sought for three Research Associates to join the Cambridge Lab for Ancient World Studies (CLAWS), directed by Professor Josephine Quinn.

Starting no later than 1 October 2027, you will anchor a new phase of activities for the Lab focusing on ancient entanglements in the broadest senses. As well as supporting CLAWS events and administration, you will conduct your own research project(s) within the broad themes of the Centre, addressing at least two different regions and/or periods and/or languages.

One project will relate to semitic languages and cultures, broadly construed. A second will relate to archaeology, broadly construed, and cognate subjects. A third is open-field with respect to Ancient World Studies. Candidates may be considered for one, two, or all three positions.

The appointments have been made possible with the support of the Faculties of Classics, Asian & Middle Eastern Studies, and History, as well as the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, and further details about the major co-funders may be found in the further particular document.

Candidates will need to show evidence of the following qualifications, skills and experience:

• Doctorate in a relevant discipline (or clear evidence that the award of such a doctorate is imminent)
• Expertise in one or more areas of ancient world studies, including but not limited to semitic languages and cultures and/or archaeology and cognate subjects
• Relevant expertise and training to successfully carry out the proposed research project
• Willingness and ability to develop academic interests in new topics, regions, periods, and/or languages
• Record of relevant research publications (or evidence that such publications are in progress) commensurate with stage of career
• Ability to work as part of a team.

In order for your application to be considered, please ensure you upload the following:

• Cover letter
• CV, including a list of publications
•  Statement of max. 500 words in total summarizing (a) the significance of your current and existing research in relation to the aims and activities of CLAWS and (b) the research project you propose to undertake at Cambridge
• Full description of proposed research project (up to 1000 words, including bibliography)
• Sample(s) of academic work (up to 10,000 words with a preference for published work)
•  Names and contact details of two academic referees who have agreed to provide references. These will be requested later in the process

If you have any queries regarding the application process please contact the School HR Team on sahhr@admin.cam.ac.uk.

The closing date for applications is midnight (BST) on Thursday 8 October 2026. Interviews are planned for Thursday 26 November 2026, subject to confirmation.

The funds for this post are available for 2 years in the first instance.

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

Please quote reference GE50790 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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