Research Associate: Zooarchaeology

Job Description

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. Find out more about our benefits (opens in a new window) and join us to become part of something special.

 

Overview

 

We have an opportunity for a talented individual with an interest in the past-relationship between people and animals to join the group led by Prof Umberto Albarella, to research the evidence of menageries and zoos from archaeological sites. The project is funded through a private donation. It will mainly focus on the study of animal remains from archaeological sites, to investigate the effects of captivity on the animal body and determine the conditions in which the animals were kept.

 

You will have a PhD in Zooarchaeology or a related discipline (or equivalent experience) and be proficient in the analysis of animal bones and teeth from archaeological sites. Previous experience in recording zooarchaeological collections is essential. The project will include liaising with museums and heritage organisations to access animal bone collections and previous experience in this area is highly desirable. You must also be prepared to travel outside Sheffield to access collections. You will be able to contribute significantly to the ongoing research of the Sheffield Zooarchaeology Lab, by designing the project in all its details, analysing the data collected as part of the projects, and writing up a research paper that summarises the key findings. For these tasks, the ability to work independently is essential.

 

Main duties and responsibilities

 

  • Develop the design of the project from its initial idea (including a recording protocol).
  • Review the literature on the subject and write up a synthesis of it.
  • Identify a few suitable case studies for the project and ensure access to the material.
  • Collect and analyse data for the purpose of the project.
  • Take a lead in writing up a paper (jointly with UA) for submission to a peer-reviewed journal.
  • Disseminate research findings through seminars and conference presentations as long as funds allow.
  • Maintain an accurate and complete record of your findings.
  • Maintain a safe working environment, including ensuring compliance with legislation and undertaking of risk assessments.
  • Work collegially with other research team members (and beyond).
  • As a member of staff you will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
  • Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

 

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

 

Essential criteria

 

  • A PhD (or equivalent experience) in a relevant area (Application)
  • Experience in research design (Application/Interview)
  • Ability to plan and conduct complex experimental analyses, and critically appraise experimental data objectively through statistical analysis (Application/Interview)
  • Ability to manage time and prioritise workload effectively with the ability to develop creating solutions to problems (Application/Interview)
  • Ability to work as part of a team with varied skills and experience and to maintain effective communication with team members and collaborators (Application/Interview)
  • Attention to detail and a proven ability to keep accurate and reliable records (Application/Interview)
  • Ability to present results orally and prepare papers for publication at a high standard (Application/Interview)
  • Ability to work safely in a laboratory setting (Application/Interview)

 

Desirable criteria

 

  • Experience in zooarchaeology methodology and data collection (Application/Interview)
  • Experience in dealing with museum stores and access collections (Application/Interview)
  • Experience in biometrical and palaeopathological analysis (Application/Interview)

 

Further Information

Grade: 7

Salary: £37,999 per annum, pro rata

Working Arrangement: Part-time (50% FTE)

Duration: 1 May 2025 to 31 March 2026

Line manager: Chair in Archaeozoology

Direct reports: None

 

For informal enquiries about this job contact Umberto Albarella (Chair in Archaeozoology) at u.albarella@sheffield.ac.uk

 

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks of the closing date. This will consist of a research presentation followed by an interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage within two weeks of the closing date. If you are shortlisted for interview and require any reasonable adjustments please contact bioscienceshradmin@sheffield.ac.uk

 

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).
 

What we offer

  • A minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
  • Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
  • Generous pension scheme.
  • A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
  • A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
  • Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
  • A range of generous family-friendly policies
    • paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
    • support for those going through the menopause
    • paid time off and support for fertility treatment
    • and more


More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).

 

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

 

We are a research university with a global reputation for excellence. Our ideas and expertise change the world for the better, making a real difference to society. We know that when people come together with different views, approaches and insights it can lead to richer, more creative and innovative teaching and research and the highest levels of student experience. Our University Vision ( www.sheffield.ac.uk/vision ) outlines our commitment to building a diverse community of staff and students that recognises and values the abilities, backgrounds, beliefs and ways of living for everyone.