Postdoctoral Research Associate (Stable Isotope Analysis)

Department
The Department of Archaeology at the University of York is ranked 20th in the world and 5th in the UK in the QS rankings. We are based in both the King’s Manor in the heart of the historic city of York and at Heslington West campus. Our vibrant community consists of over 100 staff and over 600 students, with growing international representation. We carry out international, impact-oriented and interdisciplinary teaching and research of the highest quality through our strong network of partnerships. The student experience is of paramount importance to the Department and we maintain a high level of student satisfaction. Equality, diversity and inclusion are at our core and we promote a collegial environment in which staff and students feel supported and valued. We are proud of our Athena Swan Silver Award and strive to provide a working environment which allows all staff and students to contribute fully, flourish, and excel.

Role
This Research Associate will play a key role in ‘Seeing the Dead’, an AHRC-funded project which aims to investigate the funerary custom attested in Roman Yorkshire in the 3rd and 4th centuries CE of pouring liquid gypsum over the bodies of adults and children in stone or lead coffins before burial. The project brings together experts in archaeology, bioarchaeology, chemistry, biology, and digital heritage to investigate gypsum casings and their associated preserved human remains to better understand the cultural, ritual, and practical implications of this funerary practice.

The Research Associate in Stable Isotopes will analyse carbon, nitrogen, sulphur on bone and serial dentine sections and oxygen, lead and strontium on enamel of human remains from gypsum casts and comparative humans and animals from the surrounding geographical areas to explore their dietary histories and identify potential non-locals. They will also carry out compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) of carbon and nitrogen in bone collagen for detailed dietary reconstruction for select individuals.

The post holder will benefit from networking and presenting opportunities through conferences and workshops and publishing their results. They will work closely with a PDRA based in the Department of Chemistry who will conduct spectroscopy and chemical analysis to investigate surviving organic residues, such as botanicals, unguents, dyes, or chemicals on the gypsum casings.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• Undergraduate degree in archaeology or other relevant discipline.
• PhD in archaeology, bioarchaeology, archaeological science or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of isotope analysis of bones and teeth to engage in high-quality research.
• Knowledge of a range of research techniques and methodologies within archaeological science.
• Highly developed communication skills to engage effectively with a wide-ranging audience, both orally and in writing, using a range of media.
• Ability to write up research work for publication in high profile journals.
• Competency to conduct individual and collaborative research projects.
• Competency to make presentations at conferences or exhibit work in other appropriate events.
• Ability to work as part of a team and work independently using own initiative.

Interview date: To be confirmed.

For informal enquiries: please contact Michelle Alexander at michelle.alexander@york.ac.uk.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

Advert information