"Postdoctoral Research Associate in Classical Architecture x 2 (Fixed Term)"

Location:

Central Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, UK

The Centre for the Study of Classical Architecture (CSCA) at the University of Cambridge invites applications for two full-time Postdoctoral Research Associates in architecture or architectural history. These fixed term positions will run from 1 October 2026 to 30 September 2028. The posts offer an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers to join an active, intellectually ambitious centre dedicated to advancing the study of classical architecture in all its chronological, geographical, and methodological diversity.

The CSCA seeks qualified applicants to bring rigour, originality, and interdisciplinary to the field of architecture or architectural history. We invite proposals exploring themes related to classical architecture broadly defined: its histories, theories, materials, technologies, cultural meanings, and global receptions. Candidates may come from various disciplines, including architectural history, art history, archaeology, architecture, classics, design studies, geography or related fields. We encourage applications from scholars whose work crosses traditional boundaries, engages with innovative methodologies, and speaks to wider questions within the humanities and design disciplines.

The successful post-holders will be expected to participate fully in the academic life of the CSCA and the Faculty of Architecture and History of Art. This will include contributions to seminars, workshops, research networks, and teaching as appropriate. We are especially interested in candidates who can demonstrate a track record of hard work, intellectual drive, and the capacity to contribute actively to a collaborative research culture. Excellent research potential, demonstrated through publications, conference presentations, or high-quality doctoral work will be essential.

The supporting materials required for candidates are:

• Cover Letter: (max. 2 pages, 12 pt font), addressed to Professor Frank Salmon, Director.
• CV: (max. 3 pages, 12 pt font)
• Research Proposal: (max. 3,000 words) including an abstract, introduction, methodology statement, timetable outline, bibliography, and planned outcome
• Writing Sample: (max. 10,000 words), e.g. a published journal article, catalogue entry, or other appropriate writing sample, such as (part of) a thesis chapter.
• Undergraduate course proposal: relating to the candidate's expertise and focused on architecture, an age when classicism was practised. The course should consist of eight one-hour lectures and two field visits (to buildings or drawings collections), designed for second-year History of Art undergraduates (see the Department's website for guidance).
• Two Academic References: (ideally doctoral supervisor and an examiner), to be sent directly by referees to csca@aha.cam.ac.uk by the closing date. Any offer of appointment is subject to satisfactory references.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 30 September 2028 in the first instance.

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

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to the Director of the Ax:Son Johnson Centre for the Study of Classical Architecture, Professor Frank Salmon - csca@aha.cam.ac.uk

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact sahhr@admin.cam.ac.uk

The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Thursday 19 March 2026. Interviews are expected to take place in w/c 20 April 2026, subject to change.

Please quote reference GD48939 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.