Postdoc - The Study of Health-and-Well-Being Materials and Connective Materials in the 2nd Millennium BCE Aegean KU Leuven in Belgium

The Faculty of Arts at KU Leuven, Belgium, is internationally recognized for its research excellence and vibrant academic community. The Archaeology Research Unit, part of the AKM Department, offers a multidisciplinary environment where cross-fertilization between Arts, Sciences, and Musicology takes place. The ODYSSEIA project (Organic Data Yields in Aegean Bronze Age material culture) is a pioneering initiative funded by an FWO ODYSSEUS Type I Grant, focusing on scientific, sensory, ethnographic, experimental, and iconographic approaches to human-environment interactions through crafting in the 2nd millennium BCE Aegean.

This postdoctoral position is embedded within the ODYSSEIA programme and supervised by Prof. Dr. Ann Brysbaert and Prof. Dr. Ilse Schoep. The research aims to revise our understanding of how Aegean populations interacted with their physical environment, particularly through the socio-economic roles of organic materials. The project employs a holistic methodology combining iconography, ancient texts, ethnographic and experimental studies, 3D modelling, and scientific analyses of archaeological remains. The focus is on reconstructing workflows for the production and use of organic objects, calculating labor cost rates, and addressing socio-economic and political imbalances between elites and other groups in the Bronze Age.

Key responsibilities include collecting, documenting, and analyzing evidence for connective technologies and health-and-well-being materials, such as oils, aromatics, herbs, wax, ropes, thread, hinges, glues, and mortars. The project encourages collaboration with team members conducting experimental work and aims to deliver an open-access database, four peer-reviewed journal papers, and a handbook chapter. The postdoctoral researcher will participate in training programs, meetings, workshops, and limited teaching and administrative tasks.

Applicants must hold MA/MSc and PhD degrees in archaeology, with a focus on Bronze/Iron Age Archaeology and Bio-Archaeology. Demonstrated interest in prehistoric organic material culture and landscape studies in the East Mediterranean is essential. Excellent English communication skills and proficiency with databases and statistical packages are required. Command of modern Greek is desirable, or candidates must be willing to take classes. Specialization in archaeobotany, bio-archaeology, ethnoarchaeology, or experimental archaeology, as well as relevant experience in museums and analytical instrumentation, are advantageous. A valid European driving license and other language skills (French, German) are desirable.

The position is full-time (38 hours/week), starting between September 1 and December 1, 2026, initially for one year with possible extension for two additional years after positive evaluation. Salary is 100% of the net amount for a Scientific Researcher (barema 44), and the researcher is legally required to reside in Belgium. KU Leuven offers a stimulating environment with a diverse community of PhDs and postdoctoral researchers, professional and social activities, and a commitment to equal opportunity and inclusivity.

To apply, submit your application via the KU Leuven job portal before June 12, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Ann Brysbaert or Prof. Dr. Ilse Schoep by email. The Faculty of Arts welcomes candidates from all backgrounds and encourages open dialogue and diversity.