Researcher - The Politics of Sustainability in Heritage in the Middle East and North Africa

The role

We are seeking a researcher to join The Politics of Sustainability in Heritage in the Middle East and North Africa project, contributing to innovative work at the intersection of archaeology, environmental history and contemporary heritage policy. In this role, you will collect and analyse archaeological and environmental data from the Middle East, developing critical insights into premodern landscape change and its relevance for present-day sustainability strategies. Alongside your research contribution, you will co-teach modules in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage.

About you

You have a PhD in Archaeology, or Cultural Heritage, or Near Eastern Studies, or closely equivalent. You have substantial experience in Landscape Archaeology of the Eastern Mediterranean and/or the Middle East, including archaeological fieldwork. You bring a detailed understanding of the landscapes, environments, and heritage contexts relevant to this work.

You work effectively in teams, collaborating with colleagues and external partners. Competence in GIS, database management, or geodatabase organisation is an advantage. You are flexible, adaptable, and resilient, able to respond to varying cultural expectations, work tempos, or unforeseen challenges.

Desirable attributes also include a teaching qualification (Postgraduate Certificate Academic Practice or equivalent) and a commitment to continuing professional development.

What we can offer you

We give full consideration to applicants that wish to work flexibly and those who have taken a career break. Proud to be a founding signatory of the Athena Swan gender equality charter, we hold an institutional Silver award.

As a university we aim to create an inclusive environment that attracts, supports and retains the best students and staff from diverse backgrounds and experiences from across the world. We are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity.

As well as additional benefits, such as a generous holiday allowance and additional university closure days. We will support your long-term future too, with access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), subsidised health and fitness facilities and a range of discounts. All our benefits can be viewed on the Benefits Explained website.

If you wish to discuss the role in more detail, please email Georgia Andreou, g.m.andreou@soton.ac.uk for an informal conversation.