Research Fellow in Biomolecular Archaeology

UCL - Institute of Archaeology

Location: London Salary: £43,981 to £52,586 Hours: Full Time Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract Placed On: 2nd February 2026 Closes: 22nd February 2026 Job Ref: B03-02904 About us

The UCL Institute of Archaeology is recognised as one of the leading academic departments of Archaeology and Heritage in the world. It is the largest department within its field in the UK. It offers a uniquely stimulating environment with more than 60 academic staff and a lively research community of postdocs and PhD students leading high-quality research across the globe. We are at the forefront of global archaeology, conservation heritage studies and archaeological science, and have well-equipped laboratory facilities for biomolecular and materials analyses.

The AHRC-funded PELLIS (Investigating the manufacture, trade, and economy of Roman leather through multi-analytical approaches) project investigates the manufacture, trade, and economic role of leather in the Roman Empire, addressing a major gap in our understanding of an industry essential to both civilian and military life.

To find out more about the Institute of Archaeology, visit our webpage at UCL Institute of Archaeology

About the role

We are seeking to appoint a Research Fellow to work closely with Professor Rhiannon Stevens and colleagues at collaborating Institutes on the scientific analysis of Roman leather and the interpretation of finding in the wider context of the Roman ecology.

The primary role of the post holder will be: to assist with the collection of samples for biomolecular analyses; undertake biomolecular analysis of leather including ZooMS (Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry) and carbon, nitrogen and sulfur isotope analysis; data interpretation and integration with wider Roman archaeological evidence, writing/contributing to publications, assisting with project outreach.

The post is funded until 28 February 2029 and is available on a full-time basis (36.5 hours per week) from 1 March 2026.

About you

The successful candidate will have a PhD in Archaeological Science, Archaeology, Biochemistry or closely associated discipline. They will have experience of working within a laboratory environment, with knowledge of ZooMS and stable isotope analysis and the proven ability to undertake research of the highest quality, with a strong publication record for their career stage. Candidates should also have an interest in Roman Archaeology.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 22 February 2026.

Customer advert reference: B03-02904