Research Fellow in Environmental Archaeology(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About Us

The UCL Institute of Archaeology is one of the world’s leading centres for archaeological research and teaching, with more than 60 permanent staff conducting high-impact research across five continents. The Institute has a long-standing reputation for excellence in environmental archaeology and archaeological science, supported by state-of-the-art laboratory facilities.

Our research spans diverse regions, including South America, where several of our specialists focus on the Amazon Basin’s complex environmental and cultural history.

Visit the UCL Institute of Archaeology website
to learn more about our work.

About the Role

We are seeking a Research Fellow in Environmental Archaeology (Amazonia) to contribute to the UKRI-funded Voices of Indigenous Amazonia Project, led by Dr. Manuel Arroyo-Kalin. This collaborative project brings together international partners, including Brazilian scientists, UK institutions, and Indigenous communities in the Brazilian Amazon, to explore the environmental and cultural history of the region.

The postholder will play a key role in conducting and supporting environmental archaeological research in northwestern Brazil. Responsibilities include:

• Conducting fieldwork in the Amazon Basin as part of international expeditions.
• Undertaking laboratory analyses in environmental archaeology, palaeoecology, and related disciplines.
• Collaborating with Indigenous communities and research partners in Brazil and the UK.
• Contributing to data interpretation, publications, and project dissemination.
• Supporting the coordination of research activities, data management, and reporting.

Contract Details:

• Salary: £43,981 – £52,586 per annum (inclusive of London Allowance)
• Contract Type: Fixed-term, full-time (36.5 hours per week)
• Start Date: 1 March 2026
• End Date: 30 November 2027
• Location: London (Hybrid working)
• Part-time or flexible working arrangements may be considered.

About You

You will hold a PhD in Archaeology or a closely related discipline (e.g., Earth Science, Geography, Palaeoecology, or Human Ecology) that includes substantial field and laboratory research components.

Candidates nearing completion of their PhD (within six months of submission) are welcome to apply; appointment at Grade 7 will be confirmed upon award of the PhD.

Essential skills and experience include:

• Strong laboratory skills across multiple subdisciplines in environmental archaeology or archaeological science.
• Field experience in South American lowland archaeology, palaeoecology, or human ecology.
• Ability and willingness to travel nationally and internationally, including fieldwork in the Amazon Basin.
• Excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills.
• Experience working collaboratively within multidisciplinary and cross-cultural teams.

What We Offer

In addition to a stimulating and supportive research environment, UCL provides an outstanding range of staff benefits, including:

• 41 days of leave (27 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, 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 facilities
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
• Employee Assistance Programme and staff wellbeing support
• Discounted private medical insurance

This role is eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa or Global Talent Visa under UK Visas and Immigration legislation. UCL welcomes applications from international researchers requiring visa sponsorship.

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)

At UCL, we believe that diversity drives creativity and innovation. We are committed to building an inclusive community that reflects the diversity of the world’s talent.

We particularly welcome applications from individuals underrepresented in UCL’s workforce, including:

• Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates
• Disabled people
• LGBTQI+ individuals
• Women in senior research roles

The UCL Institute of Archaeology holds an Athena SWAN Bronze Award, demonstrating our commitment to advancing gender equality.

Application Process

To apply:

Submit your application via the UCL Careers Portal.

Upload the following documents:

• A CV (including academic history, publication list, and referee details)
• A cover letter outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria
• Evidence of qualifications
• Closing Date: 10 November 2025

Join UCL’s Institute of Archaeology and contribute to world-leading research uncovering the deep environmental history of the Amazon Basin and its Indigenous peoples.