Location: United Kingdom
Salary: £40,247 to £47,874 per annum
Contract Type: Fixed Term (1st September 2025 – 31st August 2028)
Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week)
Certificate of Sponsorship: Available
About the Role: Postdoctoral Research Fellow
The University of Edinburgh invites applications for a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow position to contribute to the Leverhulme Trust-funded project titled ‘Weaponised Pasts: The Evolution of Heritage-based Hostility on Social Media’. This exciting project focuses on exploring the cultural evolution of archaeological information through advanced text-mining techniques and statistical analysis.
This role offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced researcher with a background in archaeology, heritage, anthropology, or related disciplines, combined with advanced computational and statistical skills. As a member of the project team, you will conduct research that examines the intersection of heritage, hostility, and social media, using cutting-edge methodologies.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research Focus: Conduct research on the evolution of heritage-based hostility on social media using advanced text-mining techniques and statistical methods.
- Data Analysis: Analyze and interpret textual data collected using Python, R, or other programming languages.
- Collaboration: Work closely with a multidisciplinary team and communicate findings both orally and in writing to internal and external stakeholders.
- Independent and Team Work: Plan and execute research activities independently, while maintaining close coordination with other project members.
Skills and Experience Required
To be considered for this role, applicants must possess the following qualifications and skills:
- PhD: A completed PhD in a relevant field, such as archaeology, heritage, anthropology, cultural evolution, or a related discipline.
- Advanced Computational Skills: Proficiency in computational methods and statistics, with experience using programming languages like Python and R.
- Research Planning and Execution: Strong ability to plan research activities, collect and analyze textual data, and interpret results.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, essential for presenting complex research findings to a broad audience.
This position is ideal for candidates who have a strong academic background in cultural heritage and the ability to apply advanced statistical techniques to real-world data.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including:
- Salary: £40,247 to £47,874 per annum, with an appointment at Grade UE07 Step 4 (£43,878 per annum).
- Generous Holiday Entitlement: Enjoy a competitive holiday package along with public holidays.
- Pension Scheme: Access to an excellent pension plan, with competitive employer contributions.
- Staff Benefits: Discounts, family-friendly initiatives, and comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
- Hybrid Working Options: The role offers flexibility with potential hybrid working arrangements (remote and on-campus).
The University of Edinburgh fosters a dynamic and inclusive work environment, providing you with an opportunity to thrive professionally while balancing work and personal life.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion at the University of Edinburgh
The University is dedicated to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion across all aspects of employment and academic activity. We hold a Silver Athena SWAN award in recognition of our commitment to gender equality in higher education. Additionally, we are members of the Race Equality Charter and Stonewall Scotland Diversity Champions, advocating for LGBT equality.
We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and respected.
How to Apply
Closing Date: 24th March 2025
Interview Dates: To be scheduled shortly after the application deadline.
Please ensure that your application includes the following documents:
- CV detailing your academic qualifications and research experience.
- Cover Letter explaining your suitability for the role and your motivation for applying.
Applications will be reviewed by a panel consisting of colleagues from the University of Edinburgh and external project members.
Important Note: International applicants who require sponsorship will need to meet the UK Home Office’s English Language requirements and apply for a Skilled Worker Visa.
About the University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s leading research institutions, addressing global challenges through innovation, education, and research excellence. As part of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences (CAHSS), the School of History, Classics, and Archaeology (HCA) is renowned for its vibrant research culture and international reputation.
The HCA School is home to over 140 staff, including researchers, academics, and administrators, and offers an enriching environment for both teaching and research. We provide a diverse and inclusive space where interdisciplinary collaboration thrives, and our academic programmes are internationally recognized for their depth and excellence.
Apply Now
If you’re ready to join a world-class team and contribute to cutting-edge research on heritage and social media, apply now for the Post-Doctoral Research Fellow position.