Research Fellow in Environmental Archaeology(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About Us

The UCL Institute of Archaeology is internationally recognised as one of the world’s leading centres for archaeological research and teaching. With over 60 permanent academic staff conducting research across five continents, the Institute has a strong reputation for excellence in environmental archaeology and archaeological science.

Our laboratories are fully equipped for a wide range of scientific analyses, and several of our staff are leading specialists in South American archaeology, including the Amazon basin.

About the Role

We invite applications for a Research Fellow to contribute to the UKRI-funded “Voices of Indigenous Amazonia” project, led by Dr Manuel Arroyo-Kalin. This international research programme investigates environmental change, human–environment interactions, and indigenous histories in the Brazilian northwest Amazon.

The postholder will play a key role in supporting and advancing the project’s environmental archaeological research, working in collaboration with Brazilian scientists, UK-based partners, and indigenous communities.

The role will involve both fieldwork in the Amazon basin and laboratory-based analyses in the UK, integrating multiple strands of archaeological and palaeoecological evidence.

Start date: 1 March 2026
End date: 30 November 2027

About You

We are seeking a researcher with strong field and laboratory experience in environmental archaeology or a closely related field.

Essential criteria:

• A PhD (or near completion, within six months of submission) in Archaeology, Earth Science, Geography, Palaeoecology, or Human Ecology.
• Demonstrated expertise in environmental archaeology, archaeological science, or palaeoecology.
• Proven experience conducting fieldwork and laboratory analyses.
• Knowledge of South American lowland archaeology, palaeoecology, or human ecology.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally and participate in fieldwork in the Amazon region.
• Strong organisational, analytical, and teamwork skills.

Appointment details:

Candidates who have not yet been awarded their PhD will be appointed at Grade 6B (£39,148–£41,833 per annum), with promotion to Grade 7 backdated to the date of PhD submission.

Application Process

To apply, please click “Apply Now” on the UCL jobs portal and upload the following:

Full CV – including academic and employment history, publications, and contact details for two referees (one should be your current or most recent line manager).

Cover Letter – addressing how you meet each of the essential and desirable criteria listed in the person specification.

Evidence of qualifications.

This post meets the eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa or Global Talent Visa. UCL welcomes applications from international candidates requiring sponsorship.

What We Offer

UCL provides an inspiring, inclusive, and flexible working environment with a generous benefits package, including:

• 41 days of annual leave (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 6 closure days)
• Option to purchase up to 5 additional leave days
• Career Average Revalued Earnings (CARE) pension scheme
• Cycle to Work and Season Ticket Loan schemes
• On-site nursery and gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) and staff support services
• Discounted private medical insurance

Learn more: UCL Rewards and Benefits

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

At UCL, we believe diversity drives excellence, innovation, and creativity. We are committed to providing a fair, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

We particularly encourage applications from:

• Individuals from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds
• Disabled candidates
• LGBTQI+ individuals
• Women, especially at senior grades

The Institute of Archaeology holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, recognising our progress in advancing gender equality.