Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Human Bioarchaeology

University of Bradford; Bradford; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in the UK is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Human Bioarchaeology for a project investigating historical health changes. The role emphasizes collaboration, data analysis, and conducting research in both local and international contexts. Ideal candidates should hold a PhD in the relevant field and demonstrate strong independent research skills. Competitive salary and access to various benefits including generous holiday and on-site facilities are offered.

Benefits

25 days holiday

Family-friendly policies

Unique fitness centre

Eye clinic

On-site nursery

Generous pension schemes

Qualifications

• PhD in human bioarchaeology or related subject area required.
• Strong research background and experience in interpreting large datasets.
• Knowledge in statistics and research data analysis for bioarchaeology is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on health during the Industrial Revolution.
• Collaborate with a research team on archaeological evidence.
• Disseminate findings through various channels such as publications and social media.

Skills

Research background in human bioarchaeology

Data analysis in bioarchaeology

Ability to interpret diverse datasets

Independent problem-solving

Commitment to professional development

Education

PhD in human bioarchaeology or related subject area

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Human Bioarchaeology

Faculty of Life Sciences

School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences

Salary: £40,497 to £45,413 Fixed-Term 32 months, 1.0 FTE, campus based. Start date is flexible, but MUST be before 1/7/2026 Post Type: Full Time Contract Type: Fixed Term Closing Date: Monday 02 February 2026 Interview Date: To be confirmed Reference: HR01930600-3

University of Bradford

At the University of Bradford, our focus is on creating the conditions for social, cultural, and economic impact. We are committed to social inclusion. Our work to expand opportunity and enable students to reach their potential, has led to us topping the Social Mobility Index of English universities for the last four years.

Faculty

The School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated person to join us as part of the AHRC-funded “Dead and Buried: Investigating changes in health during the Industrial Revolution using documentary records and human skeletal remains” research project. The School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences conducts internationally recognised interdisciplinary research blending cultural archaeology with cutting edge science to explore the past within the context of contemporary challenges. Our research has been recognised by internal and external investment of over £6M for World Class Labs, and with a Queen's Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for our world‑leading work in developing archaeological technology and techniques and its influence on practice, policy and society.

“Dead and Buried” is led by Dr Jo Buckberry, head of the Biological Anthropology Research Centre. The project includes close collaboration with archaeologist Dr. Justin Lowry and Bioarchaeologist Dr. Gillian Crane Kramer (SUNY Plattsburgh) who will add to the diversity of perspectives and increase the impact of this research.

What you will be doing:

This post holder will conduct research as part of the “Dead and Buried” project. They will:

• Work collaboratively within a research team investigating the archaeological, demographic and geospatial evidence relating to human health during the industrial revolution
• Collate and interrogate bioarchaeological and palaeopathological data from excavated Industrial-era cemeteries in the UK and USA
• Travel to archaeological units in the UK and to both national and international conferences
• Research the environmental, economic and social background of the areas under investigation
• Disseminate research through conference papers, publications, outreach activities and social media

Qualifications/ experience:

• PhD in human bioarchaeology or related subject area
• Strong research background in human bioarchaeology and palaeopathology
• Experience of working with and interpreting large and diverse datasets
• Knowledge and experience of appropriate statistics and research data analysis in bioarchaeology
• Ability to work independently to solve relevant research problems
• Committed to continuing personal/professional development

In Return we Offer:

• 25 days holiday (Grade 8) and 13 statutory and customary days (taken at Easter and Christmas).
• Family-friendly policies
• Great campus facilities including:
• Unique fitness centre
• Eye clinic
• Physiotherapy & sports rehabilitation,
• Counselling & mental health services
• On site nursery
• Food & drink outlets
• Generous employer contribution pension schemes -
• Generous benefit schemes, including car leasing, cycle to work, holiday purchase, home & technology scheme and shopping discounts

Additional Information: