Post-Doctoral Research Assistant (PDRA) in Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction
University of Reading
Reading, UK (based at University of Reading)
This is an exciting full-time fixed-term opportunity to join the EcoArch (Ecological Archaeologies of the Afrotropics) project at the University of Reading’s Department of Geography & Environmental Science. The role centres on advancing our understanding of climate, vegetation, wildfire and human interactions across Africa and the Middle East during the Holocene. You will work as part of a dynamic, international team to develop and apply innovative statistical and modelling approaches that reconstruct past environments at local and continental scales. This includes analysing palaeoenvironmental data around key archaeological sites in the Afrotropics and synthesising large-scale reconstructions of climate, vegetation and fire regimes through time for use in model evaluation and interpretation. The postholder will be based in Reading but will collaborate with colleagues in Oslo and at Pennsylvania State University. The position is offered initially on a 36-month contract, with potential for extension subject to funding and project needs. The expected interview date is 17 March 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants will be expected to hold a PhD (or have submitted a PhD) in environmental science or a closely related discipline by the start date of the appointment, with previous postdoctoral research experience.
Required Expertise, Skills
Candidates should demonstrate familiarity with state-of-the-art palaeoenvironmental reconstruction techniques and have broad, up-to-date knowledge of palaeoclimate and palaeoenvironmental modelling and statistical methods used for model evaluation. Excellent programming skills are essential, as is the ability to take initiative, manage a complex workload, and meet strict project deadlines.
Salary Details
The salary is listed in the range of approximately £36,636 to £38,784 per annum (indicative), commensurate with skills and experience.
Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted by 23:59 on 8 March 2026.